> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1509200-principal-systems-engineer-defense](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1509200-principal-systems-engineer-defense). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Systems Engineer-Defense - **Company:** Curtiss-Wright Corporation - **Location:** Ashburn, VA, United States - **Salary:** $144,100.0 - $190,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Excel, Gigabit Ethernet, Systems Engineering, JIRA, Software Debugging, Linux, Programming Tools, Failure Mode Effects Analysis, IBM Rational Clearquest, Microsoft Office, PCI Express, Microsoft PowerPoint, RS-232, RS-485 Standard, Serial Communications, Software Engineering, USB, VxWorks, Information Technology - **Published:** July 30, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.juju.com/job/00000000gknuxy ## About the Role + 10 plus years of experience at US DoD Primes or at a company that directly supports them. + Knowledge of system hardware/software development, integration and test for deployed military vehicle applications + Exceptional problem solving skills + Expert knowledge of the systems engineering tools DOORS and Cameo + Working knowledge of engineering development tools like Clearquest, JIRA, and Rational Development Tools + Ability to operate and debug Linux and VxWorks based computing systems + Solid understanding of SOSA and VPX system design standards + Solid understanding of serial communication protocols such as MIL-STD-1553, RS422, RS485, RS232, 10G and 100G Gigabit Ethernet, PCIe, USB + Solid understanding of the latest processing and graphics solutions + Excellent troubleshooting skills of rugged computing systems + Ability to lead in a team environment + Ability to drive clarity to ambiguous requests or requirements + Ability to work well in a fast-paced professional office environment + Experience conducting System Safety Assessment, Functional Hazard assessment and Failure Mode Effects Analysis is a plus + Previous experience in RTCA/DO-254/DO-178 processes and FAA Certification is a plus + Experience with Microsoft Office including Word Excel, PowerPoint and Project + BS Computer Science, BS Software Engineering, BS Electrical Engineering preferred ## Description Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Virginia. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer. Your Challenge: + Leading large technical teams to meet complex customer requirements + Representing the company as the technical expert to customers, suppliers, and CW management + Synthesizing requirements into the lowest risk solution available + Producing technical documentation to adequately describe CW's solution to both the customer and the engineering team + Providing technical guidance to cross functional teams + Reporting technical status and way forward to varied audiences + Recommending training to enhance team development + Evaluating technical performance and potential to individual performers and job applicants; assuming technical responsibility for the performance of the teams in his/her charge ## Related Videos - [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers) - [Docker network without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1418-docker-network-without-docker) - [Improving quality with Agentic AI with Rovo Dev and Xray](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2005-improving-quality-with-agentic-ai-with-rovo-dev-and-xray) - [Prototyping with Hardware and the Web](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/651-prototyping-with-hardware-and-the-web) - [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies) - [Docker exec without Docker](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1094-docker-exec-without-docker) ## Related Articles - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering) - [Top Characteristics of a Software Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/166-top-characteristics-of-a-software-engineer) - [Events like RSAC Get You CISOs. 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