Principal Systems Engineer

The Principal Systems Engineer is a 6 month contract-to-hire opportunity located in Bridgeton, MO with hybrid work options. The role directs systems engineering for cargo loader fleets to sustain OSS&E baselines and Air Force readiness, and requires an active DOW Secret Clearance.

Responsibilities

• This position is based at the Bridgeton, MO facility with the choice of in-person or hybrid work arrangements.
• Apply disciplined systems engineering to preserve the Government technical baseline, proactively identify and resolve field and overhaul line issues, and ensure rebuild actions and upgrades maintain Operational Safety, Suitability, and Effectiveness and fleet readiness.
• Develop and maintain essential engineering plans and rigorous change control; lead and participate in structured reviews that drive corrective actions, continuous improvement, and keep technical data and configuration records aligned with Air Force requirements for field sustainment and depot rebuilds.
• Serve as a visible technical leader across engineering, production, and Government stakeholders, translating data and field feedback into actions that enhance readiness, reliability, and mission capability for cargo loaders enabling the Air Force to deliver people and equipment anywhere, anytime.
• Perform systems engineering to sustain OSS&E baselines for cargo loader fleets.
• Support field and depot level technical sustainment activities and travel as required to execute program tasks.
• Proactively identify, analyze, and resolve field sustainment and depot overhaul line issues or material deficiencies affecting cost, schedule, or performance.
• Maintain and improve the Systems Engineering Plan to govern technical activity execution.
• Maintain and execute the Configuration Management Plan, ensuring configuration definitions remain accurate for fielded and depot rebuilt assets.
• Develop and staff Engineering Change Proposals and Contract Change Proposals, supporting coordination and approvals through the configuration control board.
• Keep system-level baselines and specifications current as requirements evolve.
• Maintain system safety program plans and update safety assessments when changes occur.
• Collaborate with depot operations to implement continuous improvements that reduce labor hours while preserving performance baselines.
• Participate in recurring System Review Board and technical interchange meetings, delivering clear visuals and technically accurate status communications.
• Engage in Earned Value Management program baselining and variance activities.
• Develop and maintain data analysis tools as needed to support performance assessment and status accounting.
• Support and reinforce the mission, values, and culture of the organization; attend relevant engineering, customer, or business meetings.
• Provide technical expertise and assistance to other engineers and supporting personnel.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering.
• Eight-plus years of relevant experience.
• Knowledge and substantial experience across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Strong analytical and communication skills, both written and oral.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, Lists, Planner, Project, OneNote, SharePoint, Teams).
• Experience with Corel MindManager, Windchill Risk and Reliability, and DOORS requirements management software preferred.
• Ability to travel occasionally within CONUS (~25%).
• Active DOW Secret Clearance.

Technologies

• Microsoft Office suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, Lists, Planner, Project, OneNote, SharePoint, Teams)
• Corel MindManager
• Windchill Risk and Reliability
• DOORS requirements management software

Contract Length

• Six months with contract-to-hire potential.

Employment Prerequisites

• Successful completion of a background investigation and drug urinalysis.

Compensation

• Estimated hourly range: from $45.50 to $65.00.