Senior System Engineer

General Dynamics Missions System International; Ottawa; Hybrid; CAD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology company in Ottawa is seeking a Senior System Engineer to develop and integrate complex sonar architectures for naval operations. This role involves system requirements analysis, designing architecture, and leading testing activities. Candidates should have a Bachelor's in engineering, strong problem-solving abilities, and be willing to obtain NATO security clearance. The company offers a flexible work environment, professional development opportunities, and a total rewards package including health and dental benefits.

Benefits

Flexible work environment

Professional development resources

Health and dental benefits

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.
• Ability to conduct analysis and draw conclusions.

Responsibilities

• Performing system requirements analysis for sonar subsystems.
• Designing system architecture for integrated sonar suites.
• Leading qualification and acceptance testing activities.

Skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Technical writing skills

Knowledge of system development processes

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field

Tools

Requirements management tools

Job description

At General Dynamics Mission Systems–Canada, our focus extends beyond engineering technology solutions—we are dedicated to cultivating careers. If you seek a purpose-driven career solving some of the world’s most critical problems, alongside some of the brightest engineering minds, your application is welcome. Join a community where your unique perspective propels innovation.

Why Join Us?

• Flexible Work Environment: We have On-site and Hybrid positions, this is often dependent on the nature of your role. We offer a variety of options for your work schedule which includes compressed work week options, flexible start times and shut down periods.
• Professional Development: We offer a number of resources and support to help develop your professional toolkit! You should anticipate regular progress reviews as well as access to educational assistance, professional designations and certification support, training and more!
• Total Rewards: Consider it covered—health, dental, and beyond. Early access to a pension plan with various perks to acknowledge your contributions to the organization.

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.

You day to day could include:

• 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

We believe the unique contributions of each of our colleagues are key in our ability to drive innovation. By fostering a culture of belonging, encouraging idea sharing at all levels, and reinforcing the very real impact of what we do, we offer an environment where everyone can take pride in their work. We respect diverse opinions, and value the lived experiences each and every one of us bring to our workplace. If you require accommodation during any stage of the application process, please contact Human Resources via [e-mail] .