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About the job

Principal Electrical Systems Engineer - Electro-Optical Systems

Location: Herndon, VA 20171

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary: $150,000 - $225,000 annually (depending on experience, education, and role scope) .

Relocation: Assistance provided.

Benefits: Comprehensive medical/dental/vision, 401(k) with immediate match, FSA/HSA, education assistance, generous PTO, and flexible schedules (including a 9/80 option).

About the Role

Lead the electrical architecture and technical development of advanced electro-optical and laser-based systems for NASA, DoD, and commercial space missions. You will guide programs from concept through deployment, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to transition cutting-edge research into operational aerospace technologies. This role is ideal for a hands-on problem solver passionate about spaceflight architecture, technical leadership, and mentoring.

Essential Duties

Architect & Design: Lead the electrical architecture and execution of complex electro-optical and laser systems for spaceflight and defense.

Define Requirements: Establish system-level requirements, interfaces, performance budgets, and verification strategies.

Hardware Leadership: Direct the development of high-reliability power systems, control electronics, data acquisition, and mixed-signal systems.

System Integration: Drive multidisciplinary subsystem integration, verification, troubleshooting, and environmental qualification.

Program Support: Lead design reviews, support technical proposals, and manage customer interactions across concurrent R&D and production programs.

Mentorship: Mentor junior/mid-level engineers and establish engineering best practices.

Hands-On Testing: Actively participate in lab, environmental, and field testing.

Required Qualifications

Education: BSEE required.

Experience: 15+ years developing complex aerospace, defense, or spaceflight electrical systems.

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