Principle Systems Engineer - Embedded

Principal Systems Engineer - Embedded

We are seeking a visionary Principal Systems Engineer to lead a groundbreaking new aircraft development effort. In this role, you will shape the architecture, performance, and technical direction of an advanced aerospace platform from its earliest concept through detailed design. This position is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of innovation and rigor—someone who can translate ambitious mission needs into elegant, executable engineering solutions while guiding multidisciplinary teams toward a unified technical vision.

• Drive the design and maturation of next‑generation aircraft systems.
• Collaborate closely with experts in aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, materials, and manufacturing.
• Manage the full engineering lifecycle, from requirements analysis and system modeling to integration, verification, and technical risk management.
• Contribute to the development of cutting‑edge technologies, including advanced mission payloads, electronic systems, and highly integrated airframes.
• Build and manage the requirements traceability matrix (RTM).
• Develop CONOPS, system architectures, and interface definitions.
• Lead PDR/CDR planning and risk reduction.
• Perform trade studies focusing on weight, power, cost, and survivability.

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering or a related field.
• Approximately 14+ years of relevant experience.
• Extensive experience in requirements management, MBSE, system integration, and technical performance tracking.
• Solid experience in aerospace or defense programs.
• Demonstrated knowledge of engineering principles and practices.
• Experience working in multi‑disciplinary design and development teams.
• Thorough understanding of requirements development, system design, integration, and Verification and Validation (V&V) principles.
• Experience with narrow‑body aircraft systems (ECS, electrical power, lighting, cabin management).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

• Advanced experience with requirements management and system modeling tools, such as DOORS, Rhapsody, No
  
  Magic, MATLAB.
• Knowledge of industry‑standard mechanical design principles, including requirements management and Model Based System Engineering (MBSE).
• Experience or certification in INCOSE standards.
• Experience in the Aerospace and Defense Industry.
• Experience leading baseline definition and maturation in a complex development setting, including the use of high‑impact trade studies.
• Thorough understanding of establishing and tracking key Technical Performance Measurements (TPM).

This is a fast‑paced environment with a business casual dress code. The primary location is the Rocky Mountain Campus, which features a gym, cafeteria, and coffee shop onsite. Hybrid work is allowed, but onsite presence is preferred to facilitate collaboration. The role can support individuals working in Dayton, OH, Plano, TX, or Wichita, KS, with occasional onsite requirements. The company offers generous benefits, including a 401(k) with 150% matching up to 6%, and access to a state‑of‑the‑art coffee house and fitness center.

This is a Contract position based out of Englewood, CO.

The pay range for this position is $100.00 – $115.00/hr.

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre‑tax and Roth post‑tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long‑term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.