• Systems Engineering Manager

    Actalent (Chatsworth, CA)


    Systems Engineering Manager

    About the Role

    We’re looking for a dynamic Systems Engineering Manager to lead the development, integration, and qualification of rugged embedded systems for aerospace and defense applications. This is a leadership role that drives technical excellence across the full system lifecycle—from requirements and architecture to verification and delivery—spanning both hardware and software domains.

    What You’ll Do

    + Lead & Inspire: Manage Systems and Software Engineers, Technical Leads, and Program Managers supporting embedded systems for space and military/aerospace programs.

    + Own the Lifecycle: Define requirements, design architectures, develop ICDs, and lead integration, verification, validation, and qualification activities.

    + Drive Milestones: Oversee key reviews—SRR, PDR, TRR, CDR, SOI, PRR—to ensure successful program execution.

    + Collaborate & Communicate: Partner with PMO on schedules, budgets, and resources; facilitate Technical Interchange Meetings and Engineering Reviews.

    + Ensure Compliance: Manage requirements traceability and adherence to program/regulatory standards.

    + Risk Management: Identify and mitigate technical risks while seizing opportunities for improvement.

    + Build Teams: Mentor and develop a high-performing, inclusive engineering team.

    + Champion Excellence: Lead continuous improvement initiatives and implement best practices.

    + Support Growth: Contribute to proposals, customer interactions, and technical publications.

    What You Bring

    + Experience: 10+ years in aerospace/defense with proven leadership in embedded systems development.

    + Expertise: Strong knowledge of system design, aerospace lifecycle processes, and milestone reviews.

    + Certifications & Standards: Familiarity with DO-254, DO-178C, AS9100, ARP4754, ARP4761, MIL-STD-810, DO-160, MIL-STD-461, MIL-217.

    + Communication: Excellent verbal and written skills to convey complex technical concepts clearly.

    + Leadership: Ability to manage technical risks and foster cross-functional collaboration.

    + Compliance: Must be ITAR compliant or a U.S. Person.

    Preferred Attributes

    + Respectful, accountable, and passionate about delivering high-quality aerospace solutions.

    + Creative problem solver who thrives in fast-paced environments.

    + Strong business acumen with the ability to balance technical and financial considerations.

     

    Why Join Us?

     

    + Work Environment: On-site role with a flexible 9/80 schedule.

    + Impact: Be part of a rebuilding team working on advanced technologies for aerospace and defense.

    + Culture: Commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.

     

    Ready to Lead?

     

    Apply today and help shape the future of aerospace systems engineering!

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Permanent position based out of Chatsworth, CA.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $210000.00/yr.

     

    9/80 schedule Paid Time Off (PTO) 401(k) Matching Significant Employer Contributions to Health Plans Comprehensive benefits package provided

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in Chatsworth,CA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Jan 28, 2026.

    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.