Senior System Engineer

General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada; Dartmouth; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology firm in Dartmouth is seeking a Senior System Engineer for its Air & Naval Division. The role focuses on integrating complex sonar systems used in naval operations, requiring a Bachelor's degree in Engineering and relevant systems engineering experience. Candidates should have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively. This position offers opportunities for career development and innovative projects in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Mentorship programs

Professional certifications

Educational support

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical or Computer Engineering, or equivalent.
• Relevant experience in systems engineering.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of system development processes.

Responsibilities

• Perform system requirements analysis for new products.
• Design system architecture and conduct trade studies.
• Plan and execute system integration including lab setup.
• Lead acceptance testing activities.
• Maintain technical documentation.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Technical writing

Electrical Engineering knowledge

Mechanical Engineering knowledge

Interpersonal communication

Systems engineering

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent

Tools

Requirements management tools

Software development tools

Job description

Overview

Build bold. Deliver impact. Win together. At General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada, we’re not just engineering technology — we’re shaping the future of defence and security. Our teams design and deliver advanced, mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, strengthen communities, and protect the people we serve.

If you’re looking for meaningful work that contributes to a safer, more secure world, you’ll find purpose here. Every day, your skills will directly impact programs that matter.

Job Description

The Air & Naval (A&N) Division delivers sophisticated, mission-critical systems for air and maritime applications. Our team specializes in areas such as integrated sonar systems, acoustic signal processing, training and simulation environments, and data management platforms. We work closely with defense partners to deliver reliable, effective, and operationally relevant solutions.

We are currently hiring for a Senior System Engineer to join our A&N Division, focused on complex sonar architectures composed of multiple subsystems — including sonobuoys and processing, transmit and receive arrays, hull mounted sonars, Torpedo sonar intercept sensors, handling systems, and operator interfaces — into a unified, mission-ready capability. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to system-level integration and performance of advanced sonar solutions used in naval operations.

Responsibilities

• Performing system requirements analysis and definition for new or evolving products from a system-of-systems perspective, ensuring alignment and interoperability among multiple sonar subsystems and supporting components
• Designing system architecture, conducting trade studies, and defining system interfaces across integrated sonar suites (e.g., hull-mounted, towed, and variable depth sonar systems)
• Planning and executing system integration, including lab setup, test planning, and troubleshooting at both subsystem and full-system levels to validate integrated sonar performance
• Leading or supporting qualification and acceptance testing activities
• Preparing and maintaining technical documentation (requirements, design specifications, test plans, reports)
• Working closely with internal teams and external clients to provide technical support and lead discussions on integration strategies, interface management, and overall sonar system performance
• Investigating system-level issues, performing root cause and trend analysis
• Supporting process improvement and internal tool development
• Contributing to mentoring and knowledge-sharing within the team to build depth in sonar systems engineering and acoustic analysis expertise

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent
• Relevant experience in systems engineering, with a focus on complex electronic systems
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to conduct analysis and draw conclusions
• Broad knowledge of system development processes and lifecycles, including requirements definition and management
• Experience with software and hardware engineering processes and tools, as well as requirements management tools
• Strong technical writing skills and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively
• Enthusiastic contributor with a willingness to learn new skills and take ownership of work
• This role requires NATO level clearance

Preferred Experience

• Relevant experience in systems engineering, with exposure to complex electronic or maritime systems integration
• Experience with multi-subsystem integration, preferably in sonar or underwater sensor domains

It is a requirement that General Dynamics Mission Systems-Canada be registered with the Canadian Controlled Goods program and that all of its workforce be security assessed. Successful applicants must meet all applicable security requirements, including but not limited to the ability to obtain and maintain a Canadian government security clearance. Applicants may be required to meet additional security requirements in order to gain access to technical data, classified areas or information that is subject to international regulations. You must be eligible to work in Canada.

Additional Information

Why join us?

• Purposeful Innovation: You’ll work on innovations that genuinely make a difference. You’ll apply advanced thinking, design expertise, and practical problem-solving to help equip military and allied forces with leading-edge systems. You’ll be surrounded by some of the brightest minds in the defence sector, contributing to next-generation technologies in an environment that celebrates creativity, new ideas, and modern solutions.
• Connection: We believe people do their best work when they feel they belong, and their ideas can flourish. Different perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking help us innovate and grow. Strong relationships with our teammates help us unite, overcome challenges, and deliver the world-class quality we’re known for. Here, we are committed to inclusivity and ensures every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered.
• Challenging and Rewarding Career Pathways: Your career path matters to us. From mentorship and regular check-ins with your leader to educational support, professional certifications, and continuous training, you’ll have the resources you need to thrive. We encourage internal mobility so you can explore different business areas, broaden your skillset, and expand your network. You’ll be working on high-profile, impactful projects that challenge your skills, expand your expertise, and allow you to both learn from mentors and guide others along the way.

Accommodation

If you require accommodation during any stage of the application process, please contact Human Resources via [e-mail].

Closing Date

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.