Lead Systems Engineer, Space RF Systems

Worker Type Regular Job Description Summary We're seeking a highly motivated and skilled Lead Systems Engineer to join our Space RF Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test (SEIT) Team. Our exciting programs will revolutionize how we connect with satellite assets, enabling faster and more secure data transmission. You will be a key member of a team performing and leading systems engineering tasks for multiple projects as well as supporting the continuous improvement of our formal Systems Engineering (SE) capabilities. You will interface and coordinate with multiple external and internal organizations including stakeholders and other engineering disciplines. You may be asked to lead special projects within the SEIT or Engineering organization. Position Responsibilities Primary responsibilities include leading or supporting the effort to capture our developing product lines into Cameo, as part of our Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approach, as well as leading or supporting standard SE efforts working in accordance with systems engineering best practices, methods, and processes, per INCOSE SE Handbook and ISO/IEC/IEEE 15288:2023. Typical tasks may include: Executing or supporting SE Technical Management process (project planning, project assessment and control, decision management, risk management, etc.) as needed. Working with stakeholders to understand their needs. Translating stakeholder needs into system requirements. Developing system architectures and designs. Performing system analyses and trade studies. Developing and executing system verification procedures. Developing, executing, and/or supporting system validation efforts. Creating and maintaining technical documentation. Participating in customer reviews. Supporting other engineering disciplines as needed. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering or related engineering field with 8+ years of formal experience OR master’s degree in Systems Engineering or related engineering field with 6+ years of formal systems engineering experience. INCOSE certification (CSEP or ESEP), if degree is not in Systems Engineering. Working knowledge of the systems engineering processes as described in the INCOSE SE Handbook and/or ISO/IEC/IEEE 15288:2023. Experience in model-based systems engineering (MBSE) to include determining model architecture and standard practices, requirements development, linking to design tools, linking requirements, design, and verification elements, and model analysis (gap analysis). Physical Demands Ability to work in an office and production environment (Constant) Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent) Clearance Level Top Secret The salary range for this role is: $111,500 - $158,025 AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. ITAR Requirement: This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements. Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: . We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. Principals only need apply. NO agencies please. About AV: AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship is required. Secret or Top Secret clearance, or the ability obtain a clearance is desired.