Senior Systems Engineering Manager Space Datalinks (ONSITE)

Date Posted: 2026-08-07 | Location: Cedar Rapids, IA | Onsite role | U.S. citizenship required for security clearance

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Systems Engineering Manager with a strong background in Space Systems Engineering to join our Mission Systems Space Datalinks Systems team. This role involves leading the development of advanced space communication technologies that support military operations globally. You will guide teams responsible for designing and developing cutting-edge Space Datalink products across the full spectrum of communication bands, shaping the future of space communications at Collins Aerospace.

In this role, you’ll collaborate across engineering disciplines to deliver complete system solutions for U.S. government customers, engaging in all aspects of the communications system lifecycle—from concept through deployment, including system-level trades, requirements development, architecture, performance assessment, integration, test, verification, validation, and field support.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of systems engineers to determine objectives and approaches for completing work.
• Set objectives and guide teams on execution, taking ownership of performance during design, development, integration, and test.
• Understand, explain, and improve policies, practices, and procedures to maximize efficiency, quality, and technical fidelity.
• Execute short-term operational plans or projects (less than 1 year) with measurable contributions to results.
• Solve process, technical, or team-related issues spanning multiple sites, geographies, or products.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders across disciplines, teams, and upper-level leadership.
• Provide primary input for hiring, firing, promotion, performance, and rewards decisions for direct reports.
• Ensure attention to technical details and adherence to program delivery schedules.
• Act as an individual contributor as needed to bolster the team.
• Travel up to 10%, based on business needs.

Requirements

• Experience with Agile development methodologies.
• Experience in Systems Engineering development product lifecycle.
• Proven ability to mentor and lead cross-functional technical teams to deliver project outcomes.
• Track record of leading teams through issue resolution or project challenges with measurable results (e.g., reduced downtime, accelerated delivery).
• Fluency in program and project management methodologies such as Earned Value Management (EVM).
• Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 10 years of relevant experience, or an Advanced Degree with 7 years of experience.
• Active and existing DoD TS/SCI security clearance required from day one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, including adapting to new systems or workflows.
• Experience in personnel management, including tasking, timecards, training, mentoring, and performance evaluations.
• Experience with communications or RF products.
• Experience working on space-based electronics programs.
• Demonstrated ability to manage risks, opportunities, cost, schedule, and staffing across multiple programs.
• Experience leading large programs through all stages of the lifecycle to production.
• Experience with encrypted communications architectures, devices, and data products.

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.
• Wellness rewards program (Healthy You Incentives).
• Virtual doctor visits (Doctor on Demand).
• Child and elder care services (Bright Horizons).
• Second opinion program (Teladoc Medical Experts).
• Relocation assistance for eligible candidates.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $132,400 – $251,600 USD. The range is a good-faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including role, function, responsibilities, work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.