Principal Systems Security Engineer

Nickerson Talent Solutions; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 132,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Medical benefits

401(k) match

Flexible PTO

Parental leave

Tuition assistance

Job summary

Nickerson Talent Solutions is seeking a Senior Technical Leader to drive systems security engineering for next-generation defense technologies in Grand Rapids, MI. You will lead secure embedded platforms, micro-edge systems, and complex computing environments, shaping solutions for national security missions.

The role requires 15+ years in systems security, strong communication skills, and US citizenship with the ability to obtain a security clearance. Travel about 25% is expected.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in systems security engineering or related fields.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a U.S. government security clearance.
• Strong technical communication, presentation, and writing skills.
• Willingness to travel ~25%.
• Experience with embedded systems and defense-related technologies.

Responsibilities

• Lead systems security engineering for embedded platforms, edge devices, and complex computing environments.
• Analyze cyber threats, assess vulnerabilities, and develop advanced defensive security solutions.
• Apply RMF and other cybersecurity frameworks to mission-critical systems.
• Support electronic warfare and spectrum operations, including radar and GPS-denied environments.
• Drive cybersecurity initiatives involving embedded software, firmware, AI/ML, and autonomous systems.
• Collaborate with engineering teams and government customers to define requirements and transition technologies.

Skills

Technical leadership

Cybersecurity expertise

Threat intelligence

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

AFSIM

Job description

Senior Technical Leader – Systems Security Engineering

Location: Grand Rapids, MI

Salary: Up to $220,000 + 15% Annual Bonus

We are seeking an experienced technical leader to drive systems security engineering for next-generation defense technologies. This is an opportunity to work at the forefront of cybersecurity, electronic warfare, embedded systems, AI/ML, and advanced edge computing while shaping innovative solutions for complex national security missions.

Benefits and Perks

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage
• 401(k) match up to 4%, plus an additional company retirement contribution of approximately 3% for eligible employees
• Flexible PTO and 10 paid holidays
• Comprehensive relocation assistance, including moving expenses and potential home purchase or lease buyout support
• Paid parental leave, tuition assistance, disability insurance, and life insurance

Key Responsibilities

• Lead systems security engineering for embedded platforms, edge devices, and complex computing environments.
• Analyze cyber threats, assess vulnerabilities, and develop advanced defensive security solutions.
• Apply cybersecurity frameworks, including the Risk Management Framework (RMF), to mission-critical systems.
• Support electronic warfare and electromagnetic spectrum operations, including radar, wireless communications, GPS-denied environments, and countermeasures against spoofing and jamming.
• Drive cybersecurity initiatives involving embedded software, firmware, AI/ML, autonomous systems, and advanced sensing technologies.
• Collaborate with engineering teams, product leaders, and U.S. government customers to define requirements and transition emerging technologies into operational capabilities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related field; equivalent relevant experience may be considered.
• 15+ years of relevant experience in systems security engineering, threat intelligence or response, vulnerability assessment, or electronic attack-related disciplines.
• Strong technical communication, presentation, and writing skills.
• U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain a U.S. government security clearance.
• Willingness to travel approximately 25%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active U.S. security clearance and certifications such as CISSP, CEH, or Security+.
• Experience in electronic warfare, ISR/SIGINT, embedded systems, AI/ML security, or autonomous platforms.
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or AFSIM.
• Experience with defense R&D, prototype development, and U.S. government customer engagement.