Lead Space Systems Chief Engineer

Trident Systems Inc.; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 144,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Vision

Life insurance

Disability

401(k) with match

Paid time off

Holidays

Discretionary bonus

Job summary

Trident Systems is seeking a Program Chief Engineer in Fairfax, VA to lead the program's technical direction, ensure integrated and verified system delivery, and align with product strategy and engineering standards. The role involves day-to-day engineering leadership, risk management, and cross-team coordination across DoD, IC, and civil space customers.

The incumbent will drive design reviews (SRR/PDR/CDR), manage risks, and communicate status to executives while supporting travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 12+ years of engineering experience with demonstrated technical leadership.
• Experience in delivering aerospace/defense hardware systems.
• Background in project engineering, systems engineering, integration, and verification.

Responsibilities

• Lead all technical aspects of the program as the primary technical point of contact.
• Drive requirements development, system integration, and verification activities.
• Manage technical risks with timely mitigation plans and actions.
• Prepare and conduct engineering reviews and support customer technical discussions.
• Lead customer-facing program reviews including SRR, PDR, and CDR.
• Ensure engineering execution meets cost, schedule, and performance goals.
• Coordinate staffing, standards, and engineering processes across teams.
• Communicate technical status clearly to leadership.

Skills

Engineering leadership

Systems engineering

Program management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Trident Systems is seeking a Program Chief Engineer in Fairfax, VA to lead the program's technical direction, ensure integrated and verified system delivery, and align with product strategy and engineering standards. The role involves day-to-day engineering leadership, risk management, and cross-team coordination across DoD, IC, and civil space customers.

The incumbent will drive design reviews (SRR/PDR/CDR), manage risks, and communicate status to executives while supporting travel as needed.