Principal Systems Architect - C5ISR

Principal Systems Architect - C5ISR 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 include: Leading end-to-end system architecture and providing hands-on technical direction across multidisciplinary engineering teams. Defining system components, interfaces, integration requirements, technical standards, and architecture roadmaps. Evaluating technical tradeoffs related to performance, cost, reliability, scalability, cybersecurity, and deployability. Providing system-level design guidance as needed. Translating customer and operational requirements into system designs, technical specifications, and traceable engineering requirements. Guiding integrated hardware and software systems from concept through development, production, deployment, and sustainment. Managing system interfaces, technical dependencies, configuration baselines, and architectural risks. Applying sound systems-engineering principles across complex, multi-domain, and multi-vendor solutions. Leading system-level integration, verification, validation, testing, demonstrations, field trials, and customer acceptance activities. Developing integration and test plans, procedures, verification methods, and acceptance criteria. Resolving interface, interoperability, performance, and system-level technical issues through hands-on troubleshooting and root-cause analysis. Supporting integration laboratories, test ranges, field deployments, and operational demonstrations as required. Serving as a senior technical authority during customer engagements, demonstrations, technical reviews, proposals, and business development activities. Translating customer mission needs into executable technical solutions, system concepts, architectures, and technical approaches. Collaborating with Program Managers, Business Development, engineering teams, customers, subcontractors, and technology partners. Providing technical input to proposals, solution development, program planning, and customer presentations. TOMORROW HIRE