Principal Systems Engineer (IVV)

ZipRecruiter; Tulsa (OK); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to lead integration, verification, and validation across complex defense projects. In this pivotal role, you will ensure robust systems from concept to delivery, providing hands-on leadership and technical oversight. You will be responsible for developing test strategies and mentoring junior engineers while driving quality assurance throughout the project lifecycle. This position offers a competitive salary and a bonus structure, making it an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge defense technologies.

Benefits

Competitive Salary

Bonus Structure

Professional Development Opportunities

Qualifications

• Strong systems engineering background with hardware, software, and firmware.
• Extensive experience in verification and validation and test equipment.

Responsibilities

• Own IV&V strategy and execution across multiple defense projects.
• Develop test rigs and lead test campaigns for quality assurance.

Skills

Systems Engineering

Verification and Validation (V&V)

Test Equipment Experience

Mentoring

Process Improvement

Education

Degree in Engineering

Degree in Physics

Degree in Maths

Tools

Automated Testing Tools

Scripting (Python, Bash)

Job description

Job Description

Role: Principal Systems Engineer (IVV)

Location: Reading, Onsite

Job Type: Permanent

Salary: Competitive + Allowance + Bonus

Industry: Defence, Cyber

Overview

Our client is looking for an experienced Systems Engineer to lead integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) across complex, multi-discipline defence projects. You'll work from concept to delivery, ensuring robust, compliant systems through hands-on leadership and technical oversight.

Responsibilities of a Principal Systems Engineer:

1. Own IV&V strategy, plans, and execution across projects
2. Develop test rigs/fixtures and lead test campaigns (in-house & external)
3. Drive quality and assurance from requirements through to acceptance
4. Support qualification, safety, and security for test environments
5. Mentor junior engineers and contribute to continuous process improvement
6. Represent IV&V at reviews, audits, and customer events

What You’ll Need:

• Strong systems engineering background (hardware/software/firmware)
• Extensive V&V and test equipment experience
• Degree in Engineering, Physics, Maths, or related experience
• Familiarity with ISO 15288, 29119, or similar standards

Desirable:

• INCOSE ASEP/CSEP
• Experience with automated testing, scripting (Python, Bash, etc.)
• EMC, TEMPEST, or environmental testing exposure

Please note that candidates must meet relevant SC/DV clearance requirements.