Senior Principal Systems Engineer - Air Combat Training (Onsite)

Date Posted:

2026-02-16

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-121 ~ 350 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 121

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 Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

Senior Principal Systems Engineer - Air Combat Training (Onsite)

The Air Combat Test & Training (ACTT) Department within Mission Systems is committed to enhancing training capability and realism, enabling U.S. warfighters and international partners to “train like you fight.” Our ACTT engineering team develops state-of-the-art cryptographic, datalink, networking, and command and control systems that support threat and weapon simulations. These advanced systems allow military pilots to practice combat maneuvers in the air without the risks or cost associated with firing live weapons. We specialize in designing secure Air Combat Maneuvering Instrumentation (ACMI) systems, guiding them from concept through accreditation, production, and installation.

What You Will Do:

• Serve as the creator and keeper of system development plans, processes, and technical vision throughout the system development lifecycle
• Lead the team in creating and maintaining system designs, technical performance measures, interface definitions, requirements, analyses, trade studies, and other documentation in an agile environment
• Present technical solutions, progress, and findings to leadership and customers during design reviews and technical meetings
• Build strong relationships and communicate effectively with multi-disciplinary team members, engineering leadership, program management, and customers
• Plan, manage, and communicate project cost, schedule, and risk
• Guide and influence across multiple programs/projects
• Travel a few times per year

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) Secret or above security clearance
• Experience with the systems development process, including requirements, design, integration, test, and documentation of systems, subsystems, or software
• Experience making decisions that impact cost, schedule, and technical performance

Qualifications We Prefer:

• Experience in a customer-facing role
• Subject Matter Expert in military networking, communication, navigation, cybersecurity, or encryption systems or avionics data buses
• Experience with the manufacturing and production of complex avionics
• Background as a Control Account Manager (CAM) using earned value management
• Experience developing technical proposals and leading bids and pursuits
• Outstanding communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• Strong mentoring skills, both technically and professionally
• Experience leading in an Scaled Agile environment using Jira tracking
• Familiarity with US export regulations: International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
• Proficient working with requirements in DOORS
• Experience with Model-Based Design (MBD)/Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools like Cameo, Simulink, or SysML
• Currently hold a security clearance or have held one within the past two years

Location Details: Cedar Rapids - Vibrant & Affordable - A Great Place to Thrive

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has evolved from its agricultural roots into a vibrant community perfect for living, working, and playing. With over 275,000 residents, the area provides a rich array of arts, entertainment, dining, and shopping options. Despite this, the cost of living is 10% less than the national average and most commutes are under 20 minutes. The city's cultural scene comes alive with performances at the Alliant Energy PowerHouse arena, outdoor McGrath Amphitheatre, and historic Paramount Theatre. Sports fans can feel the excitement of Big Ten games at the nearby University of Iowa or cheer on local minor league teams. The region boasts extensive trails, parks, golf courses, and waterways for various outdoor recreation opportunities. This thriving city also stands out f