Chief Systems Engineer

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US’s dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems.  In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

We are seeking an experienced Chief Engineer to lead technical design and delivery for our Ground Systems – Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)) in support of Domestic and Foreign Military Sales programs. The Chief Engineer will closely collaborate with the Program Manager ensuring program milestones are successfully completed within schedule and budget.

The individual will be the QinetiQ design authority and must possess significant knowledge of ground ISR capabilities and will play a critical role in ensuring these systems meet the mission requirements of both the U.S. Army and our foreign military clients.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrated ability to align all cross-company and cross-functional contributors to deliver a quality product meeting technical requirements within cost and schedule constraints. Flawless coordination with the Program Manager and the ability to clearly communicate at an audience appropriate level (e.g. from the customer program office to the end user and everyone in between).

Key Responsibilities:

• Fill the role of QinetiQ’s technical design authority ensuring specification compliance for the delivered product
• Be the primary Technical POC for the program between U.S. Army personnel, foreign military clients, and internal engineering teams, communicating technical requirements, progress, and challenges.
• Execute the program in synchronous collaboration with the Program Manager
• Coordinate and lead the cross-organization design, development, integration, and testing of ISR systems on ground platforms, ensuring alignment with both U.S. Army specifications and foreign military requirements.
• Work with cross-functional teams including hardware, software, communications, and sensor engineers to ensure smooth integration of ISR payloads and systems into ground platforms.
• Oversee system performance and operational testing of ISR technologies, ensuring their functionality in complex environments.
• Coordinate and review system-level requirements, system architectures, integration plans, and test strategies for ISR ground systems.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, guiding the team in systems engineering best practices and ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality products.
• Ensure compliance with Foreign Military Sales (FMS) regulations, U.S. Army standards, and international regulations (including ITAR and DFARS).
• Lead the development and implementation of technical solutions to optimize ISR system performance and integrate with existing and new military ground platforms.
• Lead technical briefings, demonstrations, and technical presentations, addressing technical issues and proposing solutions.
• Manage risk assessments and mitigation plans, particularly in complex environments requiring ISR support for military operations.
• Provide ongoing support for ISR system troubleshooting and system upgrades during deployment and operational fielding.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives related to ISR system engineering and integration processes.
• Collaborate with international stakeholders to ensure that ground ISR systems are optimized for diverse operational theaters.

• Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in systems engineering, with a focus on ground systems, ISR platforms, or related military technologies.
• In-depth understanding of ISR systems, including sensors (e.g., EO/IR, radar), communications systems, and ground platform integration.
• Experience with U.S. Army platforms, ISR technologies, and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of military standards (e.g., MIL-STD, MIL-PRF), interoperability requirements, and ITAR/DFARS regulations.
• Expertise in systems engineering tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, DOORS, and similar platforms.
• Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional projects involving ISR integration on military ground systems.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with experience in leading teams and working with high-level military and foreign government officials.
• Ability to analyze and resolve complex technical issues in real-time and under mission-critical conditions.
• Experience in managing system integration, test planning, and operational fielding of ISR systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a multinational, multi-disciplinary environment.
• Ability to travel as required to support project needs, including travel to military installations and overseas locations.

Additional Requirements:

• Must currently posses a U.S. government security clearance at the Secret level or higher.
• Previous experience working with international military clients and platforms is preferred.
• Willingness to adapt to changing environments, technology advancements, and operational demands.

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.