> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3397385-systems-architect-mgr-l5-grand-prairie-tx-11633](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3397385-systems-architect-mgr-l5-grand-prairie-tx-11633). 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). --- # Systems Architect Mgr (L5) | Grand Prairie, TX | 11633 - **Company:** Lockheed Martin - **Location:** Grand Prairie, TX, United States - **Salary:** $148,300.0 - $275,500.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Excel, Value Engineering, Data Analytics - **Published:** September 11, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9158673/systems-architect-mgr-l5-grand-prairie-tx-11633 ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical/STEM discipline * Experience performing Affordability Analysis / Design-to-Cost (DTC) activities to support Life Cycle Cost, CAIV, and Cost Reduction Initiatives. * Experience developing or maintaining cost models/estimates (e.g., TruePlanning, SEER, or custom parametric models). * Proficiency with Microsoft Excel & data analytics. * Strong fundamental engineering knowledge and financial acumen. * Experience developing and analyzing large bills of material. * Organized & detail-oriented with the ability to multitask. Desired Skills * Previous experience as an Affordability Program Lead, Cost Engineer, or Design-to-Cost Specialist. * Experience with missile defense, IAMD, or THAAD-related programs. * Experience with Capture, Position-to-Win, Affordability Planning, Government Contracting, Team Facilitation, Training, Coaching, Group Prioritization Techniques, Cost Target Allocation, and engaging with suppliers. * Experience developing Step-Down plans using Design for Manufacturing tools (DFMA, DFMPro, SEER), Value Engineering / Producibility Analysis, Quality Function Deployment, CAIV Analysis, and Plan tailoring. * Capable of performing O&S Cost, Similar-to, Pre-Design Performance, Sensitivity, Cost Capability, Producibility, Pareto, Architecture cost-driver, cost-benefit, and/or Learning Curve Analyses. * Manufacturing materials & processes familiarity. * Parametric Estimating / TruePlanning experience. * Familiarity with Cost modeling & Design-to-Cost tools, Value Engineering / Producibility Analysis, and Business Transformation. * Lean Six Sigma Green / Black Belt Certification ## Description We're looking for a highly skilled and experienced Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Engineering & Technology (E&T) Affordability Program Lead to join our team. This role supports the Integrated Air & Missile Defense (IAMD) line of business in Arlington, TX. You will lead both Design-to-Cost (DTC) strategy and cost modeling activities for the THAAD program, driving affordability decisions that keep THAAD competitive and cost-effective across its full lifecycle. Your responsibilities will include: * Establishing, issuing, and communicating THAAD cost targets, and developing Step-Down Plans to close cost gaps and achieve target costs * Developing and maintaining THAAD production, development, and sustainment cost models (e.g., Production Cost Models (PCM), TruePlanning, etc.) to support early and maturing cost estimates * Performing Affordability Analysis to support Life Cycle Cost (LCC), Design-to-Cost (DTC), Cost as an Independent Variable (CAIV), and Cost Reduction Initiatives (CRI) * Leveraging commercial and government parametric models (TruePlanning, SEER, etc.) and custom-developed models to correlate technical requirements with cost and support trade studies * Tracking and reporting Affordability & DTC progress; ensuring compliance with LM and MFC Affordability Command Media. * Collaborating across Engineering & Technology, Finance & Business Operations, Program/Proposal Management, Production Operations, Global Supply Chain, and external customers to identify and prioritize cost savings opportunities * Arranging internal and supplier Structured Improvement Activities and workshops to drive cost reduction * Proactively identifying issues/risks and facilitating tradeoff decisions, escalating to leadership as needed ## Related Videos - [Mastering AWS Cost Optimization: Real-world technical and operational cost-saving best practices](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1408-mastering-aws-cost-optimization-real-world-technical-and-operational-cost-saving-best-practices) - [Your next 10x engineer isn't in your city. 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