Principal Systems Architect - Mission Systems

Job Title : Principal Systems Architect - Mission Systems Work Type : Onsite Primary Location : Gilbert, AZ Alternative Salary : $180,000–$200,000 Overview Our client, a federal contractor supporting U.S. defense and homeland security missions, is seeking a hands-on Principal Systems Architect – C5ISR to lead the architecture, integration, testing, and technical execution of advanced C4ISR/C5ISR, border/perimeter surveillance, and Counter-UAS systems. The ideal candidate will translate customer mission needs into scalable system architectures and top-level designs integrating technologies such as sensors, communications, command-and-control, networking, AI/ML, cybersecurity, and edge computing. This role works closely with engineering teams, customers, Program Managers, Business Development, and external partners from concept through deployment and operational acceptance. Key Responsibilities Systems Architecture & Technical Leadership Lead end-to-end system architecture and provide hands-on technical direction across multidisciplinary engineering teams. Define system components, interfaces, integration requirements, technical standards, and architecture roadmaps. Evaluate technical tradeoffs related to performance, cost, reliability, scalability, cybersecurity, and deployability. Provide system-level design guidance as needed. Systems Engineering & Product Development Translate customer and operational requirements into system designs, technical specifications, and traceable engineering requirements. Guide integrated hardware and software systems from concept through development, production, deployment, and sustainment. Manage system interfaces, technical dependencies, configuration baselines, and architectural risks. Apply sound systems-engineering principles across complex, multi-domain, and multi-vendor solutions. Systems Integration, Verification & Test Lead system-level integration, verification, validation, testing, demonstrations, field trials, and customer acceptance activities. Develop integration and test plans, procedures, verification methods, and acceptance criteria. Resolve interface, interoperability, performance, and system-level technical issues through hands-on troubleshooting and root-cause analysis. Support integration laboratories, test ranges, field deployments, and operational demonstrations as required. Customer & Business Development Support Serve as a senior technical authority during customer engagements, demonstrations, technical reviews, proposals, and business development activities. Translate customer mission needs into executable technical solutions, system concepts, architectures, and technical approaches. Collaborate with Program Managers, Business Development, engineering teams, customers, subcontractors, and technology partners. Provide technical input to proposals, solution development, program planning, and customer presentations. Requirements Minimum Qualifications …