Sr. Principal Quantum Systems Engineer – Principal Investigator (Onsite)

Date Posted:

2025-07-15

Country:

United States of America

Location:

HIA32: Cedar Rapids, IA 400 Collins Rd NE , Cedar Rapids, IA, 52498-0505 USA

Position Role Type:

Onsite

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

The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance:

DoD Clearance: TS/SCI

Sr. Principal Quantum Systems Engineer – Principal Investigator (Onsite)

Mission Systems Advanced Technology & Capabilities (ATC) is seeking a Sr. Principal Systems Engineer to lead early-stage quantum sensing technology application programs. This role will lead a portfolio of related projects—coordinating roadmaps, guiding technology development efforts, and pursuing external funding. These programs apply cutting edge quantum technology-based sensors designed to provide unprecedented levels of precision and sensitivity, revolutionizing fields such as navigation and communication.  This role requires strong experience with quantum sensing technology and also ideally leverages expertise in radio frequency systems engineering, integration, and testing.

Collins Mission Systems ATC groups focus on cutting edge Department of Defense research and development projects. As an ATC engineer, you will continually advance the state of the art through the creation of innovative system concepts and technological capabilities.  As cutting-edge concepts / capabilities are proven, matured, and demonstrated, you will collaborate with business unit engineers in the adoption and transition of technologies into the next generation of Collins products and services.

Within a group of highly innovative engineers, this role provides leadership over low TRL (Technology Readiness Level <6) programs to ensure all the key performance characteristics are consistently met and that valuable IP is captured and protected as part of the Invention Disclosure process. The effective candidate will have experience both capturing pursuits and bringing the program’s vision to reality, including technical leadership and execution.

What you will do: 

• Propose, capture, plan and execute early-stage quantum technology-based programs
• Lead teams of multi-functional engineers (8-10 individuals) on programs’ technical aspects, including overseeing design, build, test, and demonstration
• Stay informed about the latest developments in Quantum Sensing technology, and serve as a Subject Matter Expert
• Evaluate technologies and identify use cases for new product development and insertion points into existing product lines
• Interface with external customers and internal stakeholders to report on program results and progress, and engage in keep sold activities to maintain customer and leadership affinity/support
• Exhibit a passion and drive for continuous learning and discovery 
• Demonstrate effective communication with the team and foster a supportive and team environment
• Train and oversee efforts of less experienced engineers

Qualifications you must have:

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 10 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 7 years of experience or in absence of a degree, 14 years of relevant experience
• Must have or be capable of obtaining a US Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance.  Candidate selected will be subject to a government security investigation/reinstatement and must meet eligibility requirements 
• Proven experience with Quantum Sensing technologies—for example, optically pumped magnetometers, Rydberg sensors, nitrogen vacancy center magnetometers, atom interferometry, or cutting-edge atomic clocks—and their applications to communication and navigation systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-discipline teams of engineers
• Demonstrated success in leading programs to execute successfully within budget and schedule requirements
• A desire to participate on a results-oriented, technology development team 
• Be highly motivated; self-directed; and eager to learn 
• Technical aptitude and professionalism 
• Travel required up to 15% time

Qualifications we prefer:

• PhD degree in Engineering, Physics, or related field
• Active Security Clearance
• Must be able to develop project plans and technology development goals in the absence of formal requirements
• Proven experience with radio frequency communications systems design, integration