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Lead, System Engineering (Space Optical Systems)

Rochester, New York
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

The L3Harris space superiority and imaging systems engineering department is seeking a systems engineer to join our team and support programs that we have recently won. The department specializes in space-based, small and large aperture visible and IR telescopes with integrated electromechanical devices used for motion and focus control. 

The successful candidate will be a program technical lead (Lead or Chief Systems Engineer, IPT Lead) by performing technical analysis, managing specifications, and generating design reviews and technical documents.  Additional responsibilities include leading the test and design verification, requirements sell off, and end item data package (EIDP) generation efforts.  

Essential Functions: 

  • Lead the development and execution of system architecture and system design plans.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure integration and compatibility of all system components and provide technical leadership and guidance throughout the entire project lifecycle.
  • Perform technical analysis, manage specifications, and generate design review, requirements, specifications, interface, and technical documents.
  • Support product test and design verification, requirements sell-off, risk assessments and mitigations, end item data package generation efforts
  • Mentor and train junior engineers to build and strengthen the team’s technical expertise.
  • Engage in continuous process improvement initiatives to enhance engineering efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Utilize systems engineering tools and methodologies to support model-based systems engineering (MBSE).
  • Contribute to proposal development and program planning activities.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Physics, or other related scientific discipline and minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
  • Professional experience in a systems engineering role supporting requirements, design, manufacturing, and integration of systems
  • 4+ years systems engineering experience with space-based payloads or vehicle systems.
  • Prior experience with the development of optics, imaging, or space based remote sensing systems.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • An active Top Secret/SCI clearance is highly desirable.
  • Systems engineering experience with space-based EO/IR systems with electromechanical pointing and focus control.
  • Technical Subject Matter Expertise in optical, electro-optical, electrical, mechanical, electromechanical, or equivalent engineering discipline.
  • Relevant experience with the design, manufacture, integration, test and sell-off of space-based EO/IR subsystems.
  • Cameo Systems/No Magic Model-based systems engineering (MBSE), SysML
  • Ability to manage multiple and competing priorities.
  • Ability to support program milestone reviews (SRR, SDR, PDR, CDR, FCA/PCA, PSR).
  • Ability to collaborate across all levels of leadership.
  • Work collaboratively with others and complete assignments with a team-oriented approach.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills – taking complex concepts and sharing with others
  • Ability to architect an end to end space system with a full understanding of the product lifecycle
  • Experience with project management aspects of technology development programs.
  • Experience with estimating and managing costs, & creating and managing schedules.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Colorado state, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New York state, and Vermont is $110,500.00 - $205,500.00 This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

About L3 Harris

L3 Harris

L3 Harris is one of the largest defense and aerospace companies in the United States, delivering advanced technologies that support missions across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. The company develops communications systems, space payloads, intelligence platforms, electronic warfare capabilities, missile defense technologies, and mission-critical sensors used by the U.S. military, intelligence community, and allied nations around the world.

For job seekers, L3Harris offers opportunities across engineering, software development, cybersecurity, space systems, manufacturing, intelligence, program management, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to veterans, cleared professionals, and engineers who want to work on advanced technologies that directly support national security. With programs spanning tactical communications, ISR platforms, satellite systems, and defense electronics, employees have the opportunity to contribute to some of the military’s most important capabilities.

Unlike companies focused on a single mission area, L3Harris operates across a diverse portfolio of defense technologies, providing employees exposure to a broad range of programs and technical disciplines. Teams work on everything from secure communications and autonomous systems to space-based sensors and electronic warfare platforms, creating opportunities for both specialization and long-term career growth within the organization.

As governments continue investing in modernization, space capabilities, resilient communications, and advanced sensing technologies, L3Harris remains one of the most important employers in the defense industry. For professionals seeking a mission-driven career with strong growth opportunities, technical challenges, and direct impact on global security, L3Harris continues to stand out as a leading destination in aerospace and defense.

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