Principal Systems Engineer

Amentum; China Lake (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a Principal Systems Engineer to join their dynamic team. This role is crucial in designing, developing, and integrating complex systems while advocating for a long-term technical vision. You will lead technical solutions to meet testing requirements, collaborate across organizations, and communicate effectively with diverse teams. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and have a passion for engineering, this opportunity offers the chance to make a significant impact in innovative projects that shape the future of testing platforms.

Qualifications

• 3 to 10+ years of related experience or 15 years of relevant engineering experience.
• Experience in interface control and system-level integration testing.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of technical solutions to meet test requirements.
• Communicate status and issues across the broader program.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Skills

System-level integration testing

Technical leadership

Collaboration across organizations

Excellent communication skills

Schedule management

Problem-solving

Technical judgment

Education

Technical degree, BA/BS

Degree in Engineering discipline

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Job Summary

Amentum is seeking an experienced Principal Systems Engineer with the technical expertise to implement solutions, evaluate products, and build upon an infrastructure that supports the changing needs of our customers. In this role, the Principal Systems Engineer will design, develop, and integrate complex systems throughout their lifecycle while advocating long-term technical vision.

The unique test sites we support are constantly in a state of planning, integration, and test execution. Programs often overlap, requiring the sites to be in multiple stages simultaneously. Critical responsibilities include leading the development of technical solutions to meet test requirements, creating concept solutions for testing challenges, leading detailed design efforts to resolve technical issues, and communicating status and issues across the broader program. This role requires a multidisciplinary engineering approach across electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, power, and mechanical subsystems.

This fast-paced program demands initiative, teamwork, and effective communication across all organizational levels. The team is multi-organizational, spanning from senior program managers to engineers, on-site technicians, logistics, and budget personnel. It is essential for this role to communicate complex ideas clearly to a broad and sometimes non-technical audience to support program priorities.

The environment requires attention to detail while maintaining awareness of the broader strategy, emphasizing execution within the overall plan.

Note: This list is not exhaustive and may include additional duties and responsibilities.

Required Education and Experience:

1. Technical degree, BA/BS, with 3 to 10+ years of related experience, or 15 years of relevant engineering experience.
2. Degree in an Engineering discipline is preferable.
3. Experience in interface control and system-level integration testing.
4. Ability to collaborate across organizations and lead without direct authority.
5. Schedule management and development experience.
6. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
7. Experience with CAD, engineering drawings, and technical requirements.
8. Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
9. US Citizenship and security clearance eligibility.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications:

The ideal candidate will have significant experience with integration and testing, with a focus on technical leadership to modernize testing platforms. The role involves active participation in implementation, leading technical teams, and developing quick-react solutions from cradle to grave. In an R&D testing environment, issues are common; the candidate must identify, clarify, communicate, and resolve problems effectively. Strong judgment, communication skills, and adaptability are essential. Close collaboration with program managers, engineers, documentation teams, logistics, procurement, and customers is required to develop plans, track milestones, and communicate status. Experience in DOD-related test programs is preferred.

The desired skill set includes:

1. Managing and monitoring infrastructure and system installations, including configuration, testing, and maintenance.
2. Engaging with upper management and providing regular reports on project status, activities, and achievements.
3. Creating and maintaining documentation related to system configuration, mapping, and processes.
4. Gathering high-level requirements and translating them into actionable tasks for engineers and technicians.
5. Proactively identifying issues and implementing solutions.
6. Conducting independent work requiring technical and operational judgment.
7. Managing multiple projects simultaneously.
8. Leading and mentoring others.
9. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with adherence to safety, environmental, and quality standards, as well as company policies and relevant regulations.

Essential Functions for Position

Physical Requirements: May involve lifting weights up to 40 pounds as necessary.

Work Environment: May be inside or outside depending on the task. Inside environments may include cubicles with varying lighting and noise levels. Outside work may involve environmental conditions such as warm or cold climates. Must work well with colleagues and management. No unusual hazards are expected.

Equipment and Machines: Ability to operate office equipment and possess or obtain licenses for heavy and light equipment.

Attendance: Standard hours are Monday-Thursday, 6:00 am to 4:00 pm during flex weeks, and 6:00 am to 3:00 pm otherwise. Punctuality and regular attendance are essential, with flexibility for surge situations.

Other Essential Functions: Maintain professional behavior, communicate clearly in English, dress appropriately, and maintain a positive work environment. Personal transportation is required, and travel up to 10% may be necessary, including potential airline travel. When operating vehicles, seat belts must be worn, and no cellular use is allowed while driving.