Principal Systems Engineer

About the role

Epirus is seeking a technical leader to oversee complex system architectures within our defense and electronics divisions. You will guide the integration of hardware and software components to ensure our high-power microwave systems meet rigorous performance standards. The role requires ownership of end-to-end system design, balancing technical trade-offs to meet stringent defense specifications. You will act as the primary architect for critical subsystems, ensuring alignment with operational mission needs. Collaboration with specialized engineering teams will be central to resolving complex integration issues. You will drive the technical direction for projects from initial feasibility through final delivery. Your decisions will directly influence system reliability and performance in demanding environments. This position operates at the nexus of advanced electronics and defense engineering, requiring strategic oversight and hands-on technical guidance.

Location: USA

Engagement: Full-time

What you'll do

• Spearhead the formulation of system-level architectural frameworks for next-generation electronic platforms, ensuring structural integrity and performance scalability.
• Orchestrate the translation of abstract mission requirements into concrete technical specifications across the product lifecycle, maintaining strict adherence to defense standards.
• Facilitate cross-functional engineering sessions to diagnose and eliminate integration barriers between disparate hardware and software elements, fostering cohesive system development.
• Conduct in-depth system modeling and analysis to verify that performance metrics align with overarching mission objectives, utilizing data-driven insights to refine designs.
• Author and maintain authoritative technical documentation and design standards that define best practices for internal engineering teams, ensuring consistency and compliance.
• Evaluate emerging technologies and assess their applicability to enhancing the capabilities of high-power microwave systems, driving innovation within established parameters.
• Serve as the definitive technical authority during system integration phases, guiding problem resolution and validation activities with precision and expertise.
• Interface with external partners and stakeholders to ensure technical deliverables meet contractual and regulatory standards, safeguarding project integrity.
• Mentor junior systems engineers by providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of rigorous analysis, cultivating the next generation of technical leaders.
• Proactively identify potential system-level risks and develop mitigation strategies to prevent performance shortfalls, ensuring robust and reliable system delivery.

Requirements

• Demonstrate extensive professional experience in systems engineering roles focused within the defense or aerospace industries, with a proven track record of managing complex technical programs.
• Show a proven capacity to lead technical projects that involve the integration of complex electronic hardware and software, navigating multifaceted challenges with strategic thinking.
• Exhibit a strong understanding of system integration methodologies, including verification and validation processes, to ensure systems meet all operational and compliance requirements.
• Maintain the ability to work on-site at our dedicated Torrance facility consistently, ensuring seamless collaboration and adherence to project timelines.
• Possess a clear understanding of defense sector requirements and the implications for system design and compliance, including regulatory and safety standards.
• Hold the capability to manage multiple technical tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail, balancing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Have a history of successful project execution where system complexity demanded innovative engineering solutions, demonstrating adaptability and problem-solving excellence.
• Commit to maintaining the highest levels of professionalism and technical accuracy in all documentation and communications, reflecting the company's dedication to quality and integrity.

Skills & tools

• Mastery of system architecture design principles applied to defense electronics, ensuring optimized performance and scalability.
• Expertise in requirements management practices to ensure traceability and completeness across the system development lifecycle.
• Specialized knowledge of electronic warfare systems and their integration challenges, including tactical and operational considerations.
• Proficiency in performance modeling techniques to predict and optimize system behavior under various operational conditions.
• Demonstrated technical project leadership skills to guide teams through complex engineering problems, driving projects to successful completion.
• Experience with system modeling and simulation tools to validate architectural decisions, reducing risk and enhancing design confidence.
• Understanding of hardware and software co-design principles in high-performance electronic systems, ensuring seamless interoperability.
• Familiarity with industry standards and best practices for defense system engineering, ensuring compliance and operational excellence.

Practical notes

Full-time engagement; on-site presence at the Torrance, California location is required.