Program Chief Engineer — Space Electronic Systems

Job overview

The Program Chief Engineer role is onsite in Fairfax or Sterling, VA, with an annual salary range of $140,000–$212,000. The role supports Trident Systems’ Space Electronic Systems division, which develops space-based electronic systems for defense, intelligence, and civil space customers. As the program’s technical leader, the engineer directs technical execution from requirements through integration, verification, and delivery. The role aligns engineering decisions and risk management with program cost, schedule, performance, and customer objectives.

What you'll do

• Lead program technical activities and serve as the primary technical contact
• drive requirements development, system integration, and verification
• manage technical risks and mitigation plans
• prepare and conduct engineering reviews and customer technical discussions
• lead SRR, PDR, and CDR program reviews
• coordinate with engineering teams on staffing, standards, and processes
• communicate technical status to program and engineering leadership
• support travel or off-site work as needed.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

program chief engineer

space electronic systems

fairfax va

sterling va

trident systems

full-time

engineering leadership

systems integration

verification

space electronics

defense programs

$140k–$212k/year

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D, short- and long-term disability, voluntary insurance options, HSA/FSA/DCFSA, paid time off, holidays, 401(k) match, tuition reimbursement, parental/maternity/military leave, and eligible-role discretionary bonus.

Why this role

Requires a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field and 12+ years of engineering experience, or 10+ years with a graduate degree. Advanced degree preferred; travel or off-site work may be needed.

About the employer

Trident Systems LLC is hiring for this role. Industry: Engineering Services. Sector: 54.