Lead Systems Engineer

About the Role

Lead a multi-site systems engineering organization within a growing defense technology company supporting mission-critical electronic systems. This role oversees a distributed team and is responsible for raising performance standards, improving structure, and driving cradle-to-grave systems engineering execution. The position is based in the DC Metro area in Virginia suburb.

You’ll Be a Great Fit If You:

• Have deep experience leading cradle-to-grave systems engineering across architecture, requirements flow-down, integration, and verification.
• Have successfully led and rebuilt distributed engineering teams while driving accountability and measurable performance improvements.
• Bring strong experience with model-based systems engineering and structured requirements management tools such as DOORS.
• Are a confident, decisive leader who can collaborate across functions while raising technical and operational standards.

What You Get:

• The challenge of rebuilding and elevating a critical engineering function within a high-growth defense environment.
• Direct visibility to executive leadership and the opportunity to shape long-term technical strategy.
• A competitive executive-level compensation package aligned with top engineering leadership roles.
• The stability of working in a mission-driven defense sector with strong growth and long-term program demand.

Salary Range

$200,000 - $250,000

To Be Considered, You’ll Need:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Master’s preferred).
• 12+ years of experience in complex engineering environments.
• At least 5 years of leadership experience managing engineers, programs, or technical strategy.
• Experience leading geographically distributed teams.
• The ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance are required.

If this resonates you and you believe you are able to meet the challenges of an exciting company in the defense sector, please apply.