Space Systems Program Lead Engineer

Trident Systems; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 129,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid time off

Holidays

401(k) with company match

Tuition reimbursement

Leaves (Parental, maternity, military)

Annual discretionary bonus

Job summary

Trident Systems is seeking a Program Chief Engineer to lead a space-focused program in Fairfax or Sterling, VA. You will direct requirements, integration, and verification, while managing risks and delivering a fully verified system that meets schedule and cost commitments.

The role requires 12+ years of engineering leadership, aerospace/defense experience, and strong communication. Occasional travel may be required; DoD/IC-space customers are served by SES division.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 12+ years engineering experience with demonstrated technical leadership.
• Experience delivering aerospace, defense, or mission-critical hardware systems.
• Background in project/systems engineering, integration, and verification.
• Experience leading complex development programs and strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead all technical aspects of the program and serve as the primary technical point of contact.
• Drive requirements development, system integration, and verification activities.
• Manage technical risks with timely mitigation plans.
• Prepare and conduct engineering reviews and support customer discussions.
• Lead customer-facing Program Reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR).
• Ensure engineering execution supports cost, schedule, and performance goals.
• Coordinate with engineering teams on staffing, standards, and processes.
• Provide clear communication of technical status to leadership.
• Support travel or off-site work as needed.

Skills

Technical leadership

System integration

Verification

Risk management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Trident Systems is seeking a Program Chief Engineer to lead a space-focused program in Fairfax or Sterling, VA. You will direct requirements, integration, and verification, while managing risks and delivering a fully verified system that meets schedule and cost commitments.

The role requires 12+ years of engineering leadership, aerospace/defense experience, and strong communication. Occasional travel may be required; DoD/IC-space customers are served by SES division.