• Systems Engineer

    Actalent (Fairfax, VA)


    Job Title: Principal Systems EngineerJob Description

     

    We are seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to lead engineering teams in developing new and improved products that meet specifications on time and within budget. The Principal Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering expertise across R&D and product development programs, participate in establishing technology and product roadmaps, and contribute to strategic business opportunities.

    Responsibilities

    + Lead a diverse engineering team in the development of advanced multi-function RF, processing, networking, and/or data storage units for space applications using systems engineering methodology.

    + Own the systems engineering process on the program and ensure the completion of systems analysis and trades, technical baseline management, and requirements verification and validation activities.

    + Collaborate with program management to lead program planning and execution within cost and schedule constraints.

    + Serve as the program technical champion, representative, and point of contact.

    + Prepare for and present at all major design reviews, including internal and external (customer) reviews.

    + Provide technical expertise in planning for IR&D and new product initiatives.

    + Support proposal efforts for new business opportunities.

    Essential Skills

    + Bachelor’s degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) field.

    + 9+ years of related experience with a bachelor's degree or 7 years with a Master’s degree.

    + Experience in electronics design including schematic capture, PCB layout, PCB routing, high-speed data design, mixed-signal analysis/design, signal integrity analysis, etc.

    + Experience with complex electronics product design at low levels of integration, e.g., PCBAs, mechanical structures, mission software, FPGA firmware, etc.

    + Experience in product development for high reliability, high survivability, and/or space environment applications.

    + Technical project lead experience balancing technical performance with program cost and schedule targets.

    + Proficient in applying systems engineering methodology to product design and development.

    + Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams through the development of complex electronic systems to meet rigorous space application requirements.

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

    + MS degree in a STEM field.

    + Experience with space industry product development life cycles.

    + Experience with Xilinx family devices, including Zynq UltraScale+ or Versal architecture.

    + Knowledge of VPX standards (VITA 46 and VITA 65) and demonstrated experience implementing in embedded hardware.

    + Experience in signal processing and/or algorithm development.

    + Experience with CAD tools, e.g., PSpice, LTspice, Altium, SOLIDWORKS, Keysight ADS, etc.

    + Experience with systems engineering related tools, e.g., STK, MATLAB Simulink, requirements management/databases, MBSE, etc.

    + Experience with one or more levels of the OSI model, understanding of networking protocols, etc.

    Work Environment

    The role involves working in a collaborative environment with program managers and project engineers to ensure successful program execution. The work requires forward-thinking and effective communication skills to take advantage of opportunities and prevent issues. Dress code is business casual, and the work schedule may vary based on project needs.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Fairfax, VA.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $75.00 - $85.00/hr.

     

    Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a hybrid position in Fairfax,VA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Dec 29, 2025.

    About Actalent

    Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

     

    The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

     

    If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.