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Systems Engineering Jobs in California, MD (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Services More about this job > Description HTii (Holmes-Tucker International, Inc.) is seeking a Systems Engineer to support customers in multiple Program Offices located in Patuxent ...

Participate in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) activities using commercial MBSE tools to identify program requirements, needs, and relationships and manage the execution of systems engineering ...

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Systems Engineering information

See California, MD salary details

$58K

$136.1K

$187.8K

How much do systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineering in California, MD is $136,144.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,200.00 and $165,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Systems Engineers play a pivotal role in bridging various departments such as software, hardware, and project management throughout the project lifecycle. They facilitate communication by translating technical requirements between teams, ensuring that all components integrate seamlessly. Regular meetings, documentation reviews, and design sessions are common, and Systems Engineers often serve as mediators to resolve technical conflicts or dependencies. This collaborative environment helps deliver robust and scalable solutions that meet both business and technical goals.

What is systems engineering?

Systems engineering is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on designing, integrating, and managing complex systems throughout their life cycles. It involves coordinating various engineering disciplines and specialties to ensure that all parts of a project work together efficiently to meet customer needs. Systems engineers use principles from engineering, management, and mathematics to address both the technical and organizational aspects of a project, from initial concept through development, deployment, and maintenance.

What is the difference between Systems Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectSystems EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Systems Engineering, Electrical, or related fields; often certifications like INCOSEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often PE licensure
Work EnvironmentProject teams, systems integration, interdisciplinary collaborationDesign labs, manufacturing, product development
Industry UsageTechnology, aerospace, defense, ITAutomotive, manufacturing, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Systems Engineering focuses on designing and managing complex systems across various disciplines, emphasizing integration and lifecycle management. Mechanical Engineering centers on designing and manufacturing mechanical devices and systems. While both roles require engineering degrees, their focus areas, work environments, and industry applications differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in systems architecture, integration, and problem-solving, often supported by a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, SysML, and requirements management software, as well as certifications such as INCOSE CSEP, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills to excel in multidisciplinary environments. These competencies ensure the efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of complex systems that meet organizational goals.
What cities near California, MD are hiring for Systems Engineering jobs? Cities near California, MD with the most Systems Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Systems Engineering job openings in California, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,144 per year, or $65.5 per hour.

Manager Systems Engineering 2

Northrop Grumman Corporation

California, MD • On-site

$161K - $241K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SCITRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

We are looking for you to join our team as a Systems Engineering Section Manager based in McClellan, CA.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is seeking a dynamic Systems Engineering Section Manager to lead a highperforming team of Systems Engineers. The role reports to the Department Manager (20% of the time) for functional staff management and spends the remaining 80% executing the technical Statement of Work.

This is an onsite position in McClellan, CA and will eventually require a current TS/SCI clearance.

What You'll Get to Do:

Key Responsibilities

  • Resource Planning & Staffing - Forecast engineering manpower, allocate resources to meet program schedules, and adjust staffing plans as demand changes.
  • Talent Development - Build mentorship programs, identify growth opportunities, and support career progression for team members.
  • Performance Management - Set clear goals, gather continuous feedback, conduct annual performance reviews, administer compensation decisions, and resolve personnel issues.
  • Strategic Vision & Execution - Translate the department's strategic plan into actionable objectives; champion a growthmindset culture.
  • Program Review Support - Prepare functional responses for System Requirements Reviews (SRR), Preliminary Design Reviews (PDR), Critical Design Reviews (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and other milestones; contribute technical content to proposals and bid packages.
  • Personnel Management - Authorize work assignments, lead recruitment efforts, and manage hiring, onboarding, and salary reviews for section staff.
  • CrossFunctional Coordination - Align engineering activities with broader functional initiatives, enforce consistent standards, and disseminate best practices across the organization.

Basic Qualifications

  • Education & Experience - Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline and at least 9years of systems, aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering experience OR a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and at least 7years of relevant experience.
  • Systems Engineering Expertise - Recent, demonstrable experience applying modern systemsengineering processes (e.g., requirement management, verification & validation, risk management; integration and test)
  • Security Clearance - Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced STEM degree (Ph.D. or specialized M.S.).
  • Prior leadership experience in systems engineering, managing a team of five or more engineers.
  • Familiarity with Earned Value Management System (EVMS) and its application to aerospace programs.
  • Experience working in a military aerospace development environment.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable interfacing with all levels of staff and senior leadership.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance.

What We Can Offer You:


Northrop Grumman provides a comprehensive benefits package and a work environment which encourages your growth and supports the mutual success of our people and our company. Northrop Grumman benefits give you the
flexibility and control to choose the benefits that make the most sense for you and your family.


Your benefits will include the following: Health Plan, Savings Plan, Paid Time Off and Additional Benefits including: Education Assistance, Training and Development, 9/80 Work Schedule (where available), and much more!

Primary Level Salary Range: $161,100.00 - $241,700.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

What Northrop Grumman employees say

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Northrop Grumman logo

About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939