Associate Director - Proprietary Platforms Systems Architect (Onsite)

Date Posted:

2026-04-22

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-VA-STERLING-291 ~ 22640 Davis Dr ~ DAVIS

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required on day 1

Associate Director, Engineering - Proprietary Platforms Systems Architect (Onsite)

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Systems Architect (P6) to lead and drive the development of cutting-edge solutions for classified Department of Defense (DoD) programs. This role will focus on delivering advanced training systems and autonomy technologies tailored to meet the unique challenges and requirements of our defense customers. The role will also entail leveraging / merging technologies and products across RTX to include Operational Analysis, Communication and Networking solutions and Avionics.  The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise, a strong understanding of classified program environments, and the ability to translate customer needs into innovative, secure, and effective solutions. 

What You Will Do:

• Serve as the technical lead architect for classified DoD programs, with a focus on advanced training systems, autonomy technologies and operational analysis. 
• Design and develop system architectures that meet mission-critical requirements, ensuring scalability, security, and compliance with DoD standards and regulations. 
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, program management, and customer stakeholders, to define program objectives, technical requirements, and system performance metrics. 
• Lead the development and integration of autonomy solutions, including AI/ML-based technologies, for mission-critical applications. 
• Drive innovation in training systems by leveraging emerging technologies to improve simulation capabilities, operator proficiency, and mission readiness. 
• Conduct trade studies, risk assessments, and technology evaluations to inform design decisions and ensure program success. 
• Provide technical leadership in the proposal and capture process for new classified programs, including authoring white papers and supporting customer engagements. 
• Ensure compliance with all security protocols and classified program requirements. 
• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaboration. 

Qualifications You Must Have:

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 12 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 10 years of experience
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in systems architecture, with significant experience in classified DoD programs. 

• Active and transferable U.S. government issued secret security clearance or higher is required prior to start date

• Deep understanding of training systems, autonomy technologies, and their applications in defense scenarios. 

• Strong knowledge of DoD standards, regulations, and security protocols. 

• Proficiency in systems engineering processes, including requirements analysis, design, integration, and testing. 

• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and manage complex technical challenges. 

Qualifications We Prefer:

• Experience with AI/ML technologies and their application in autonomy solutions. 
• Familiarity with simulation and training system frameworks, such as LVC (Live, Virtual, Constructive) environments. 
• Advanced certifications in syst