Principal Systems Engineer

The Principal Systems Engineer is considered a subject matter expert in the discipline. One demonstrates visionary & professional concepts in developing resolution to critical issues and broad design matters pertaining to the development of a variety of innovative Unmanned Systems for defense and commercial applications. The Principal Systems Engineer leads a group of other engineers in technical projects with the goal of analyzing all parts of a system to make sure each component is performing as it should. Because of the nature of the development efforts, the Principal Engineer will have a hand in a variety of stages of development including requirements definition, concept design, prototyping, detailed design, validation and verification testing.

Position Responsibilities

• Lead Systems development using Model Based Systems Engineering tools (Matlab, others)
• Evaluate and modify System Simulation models to scope requirements & identify tolerances
• Create model based Systems Test strategy based on flight envelope that includes corner cases
• Provide design direction for Aircraft Instrumentation and data analysis based on Model performance
• Provide subsystem feedback and direction to Aeromechanical, Electrical, GN&C and Software
• Plan, develop and oversee requirements traceability and evolution through the development cycle
• Provides multi-layered technical expertise for next-generation initiatives
• Conceives system interfaces and prototypes
• Develops, configures and oversees the upgrade, enhancements, fixes and sustainability
• Defines system specifications, input/output and working parameters for overall compatibility
• Identifies, analyzes and resolves system design weaknesses. Influences the shaping of future products by contributing to the framework (architecture) used across multiple products or systems
• Makes complex design decisions to meet stated and derived requirements and demonstrates expert knowledge of appropriate design, analysis and simulation tools and validation techniques
• Creates designs for success that addresses evolution and future concepts, products and/or technologies
• Work independently and provide technical supervision across disciplines
• Transfers knowledge for both professional and technical career development
• Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• 15 years of related experience in architecting, modifying and supporting aircraft avionics & flight control systems. Preferred aerospace and/or UAV experience including aircraft avionics, ISR payloads and their interfaces
• Proficiency with C/C and Matlab required
• Proficiency with office software and computer based productivity tools
• Has managed requirements traceability and evolution through the system development cycle
• Demonstrated experience in providing effective weekly status of system development progress with requirements burn down
• Has successfully developed systems test plans, procedures and reports and reviewed and interpreted customer specification
• Experienced in writing Systems Safety protocols and ensuring personnel safety during field testing
• Must be able to understand all of the components of a system and how they interact with each other, making sure the system parts work correctly together and delegate to one's team when and how something needs to fixed to keep the system working smoothly

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Advanced degree is preferred
• Experienced in taking a product from concept to production with contract manufacturers is preferred
• Exposure to Guidance Navigation and Control Systems along with Modeling Simulation and Control is preferred
• Exposure to Model Based Systems Engineering is helpful but not required
• Demonstrated understanding of Aircraft Terminology is a plus as is familiarity with Python or ROS (Robot Operating System)
• Knowledge of Simulink, Ansys and Solidworks preferred
• Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties
• Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
• Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
• Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company
• Has effective problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and communication skills
• Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests