Lead Systems Engineer - (Onsite)

Date Posted: 2026-08-13 | Location: Cedar Rapids, IA (Onsite) | U.S. citizenship required for active and transferable U.S. Government DoD Secret Security Clearance on day 1.

About the role

Collins Aerospace is hiring a Lead Systems Engineer to support programs for U.S. military and international customers. This role involves designing, developing, and integrating products from concept to production, collaborating with hardware and software engineers to ensure seamless system performance. The position is onsite in Cedar Rapids, IA, and eligible for a sign-on bonus.

Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional team members (systems, hardware, and software engineers) to ensure system compatibility and performance.
• Conduct testing, validation, and troubleshooting to ensure reliability and functionality across all product levels.
• Support the transition of products from prototype to production, including design reviews and documentation.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions and contribute innovative ideas to enhance product performance and features.
• Maintain clear communication with team members and stakeholders to align project milestones and deliverables.

Requirements

• Expert knowledge of the full Systems Engineering V – from CONOPS development to Sustainment.
• Proven experience directing integration and testing efforts within multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience organizing test teams and leading the generation of testing artifacts.
• Experience scheduling and overseeing test events, including subcontracted efforts and results.
• Ability to work with other IPTs contributing to a large-scale test program spanning Functional, allocated, and product baselines.
• Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years of prior relevant experience, or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience.
• Active and transferable U.S. Government DoD Secret Security Clearance required prior to start date.
• U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing and developing complex systems.
• Experience preparing bids and estimates.
• Experience integrating firmware and software onto hardware products.
• Experience with audio and video product integration.
• Experience with integrating communication Radio and Systems: SATCOM, LOS/BLOS, AEHF, or V/UHF.
• Experience with computer networking including API development and systems security.
• Proficiency in tooling such as CAMEO, Rhapsody, Microsoft products, or tasking boards (Jira, IBM EWM, etc.).
• Experience with scripting for analysis or build and test automation.
• A current and transferable U.S. Government DoD Top Secret Clearance.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees.
• Generous 401(k) plan with employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• Student Loan Repayment Program.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Optional coverages: pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection.
• Birth, adoption, and parental leave benefits.
• Ovia Health: fertility and family planning.
• Adoption Assistance.
• Autism Benefit.
• Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions.
• Healthy You Incentives: wellness rewards program.
• Doctor on Demand: virtual doctor visits.
• Bright Horizons: child and elder care services.
• Teladoc Medical Experts: second opinion program.
• Eligible for relocation assistance.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $107,500 - $204,500 USD. The range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. Factors considered include role, function, responsibilities, work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.