Principal Systems Engineer-Electro Optics

Job Summary

DRS Sustainment Systems is seeking a full-time experienced Systems Engineer located in Bridgeton, MO.  Responsible for directing the technical activities for the analysis, design, development, and implementation of new and/or existing electro-optic (EO) systems/sub-systems. This position will be located in Goleta, Ca.  This candidate would be responsible for meeting the corresponding contract technical performance requirements and be able to execute an interdisciplinary, systems engineering process to ensure that the customer and stakeholders’ needs are satisfied in a high quality, trustworthy, cost efficient, and schedule compliant manner throughout a system’s entire life cycle.  In addition, the candidate would be able to demonstrate consistently good judgment combined with technical expertise and to communicate effectively with engineering and management stakeholders.

Job Responsibilities

• Become knowledgeable of and fully understanding the requirements, specifications, and customer’s expectations of an EO system or subsystem.


• Direct the technical activities of electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to develop and deliver an EO system that fully meets the system requirements and customer’s expectations.


• Conduct/support EO sensor modeling to predict system performance during the design phase.


• Employ EO sensor performance testing techniques (including ruggedization techniques and design practices).


• Employ EO sensor boresighting methodologies.


• Design of EO sensors/systems to include performance of trade studies supporting sensor selection.


• Support the selection of all components that make up EO image chain (sensor through processor to display).


• Support or lead the evaluation of EO suppliers and writing supplier specifications and SOWs for acquiring EO components, subsystems, and services.


• Lead efforts to ensure the team identifies, mitigates, and resolves program risks and issues starting early in the development cycle.


• May use computer-aided design or other engineering/analysis software in the performance of assignments. 


• Responsible for completion of activities on time and budget.


• Mentor and coach other engineers. 


• Lead major problem resolution efforts and support regaining or attaining customer confidence.


• Provide technical knowledge and assistance to other engineers and support personnel. 

Job Responsibilities Part II

• Responsibilities include architectural design, requirements engineering, SE documentation, risk management, and verification and validation.


• Study alternative concepts and use of simulations to predict system performance.


• Enforce the systems engineering process and integrate into program plans.


• Responsible for leading group of engineers on a technical activity and completion of activity on time and budget.


• Be proactive in continuously improving processes and efficiency.


• Provide labor estimates and schedule input for design assignments.


• Drive the program design to cost and design for manufacture requirements.


• Participate in the preparation of highly technical proposals.


• Communicate clearly (written and oral) with manufacturing, supply chain, program management and the customer as required


• Interact with technical management, other professionals, technicians and support personnel to coordinate, recommend and confer regarding technical activities and progress


• Support, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering or related technical field
• Minimum of 8 years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of additional education and experience 
• Expected to have knowledge and significant experience in multiple engineering disciplinesMust possess excellent analytical and communication skills, written and oral.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office products (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel).
• Ability to travel occasionally in CONUS and OCONUS, if required