Principal Systems Engineer - Secure TacCom; Clearance

Position Overview

Our nation's security depends on the sacrifice of the men and women who defend our country. To do this effectively, they need secure, technologically advanced equipment fielded as quickly as possible. This role supports that mission by shaping, defining, and designing communication systems for our global customers.

Cedar Rapids, IA (US‑IA‑CEDAR RAPIDS)

Active U.S. Secret clearance required prior to start. U.S. citizenship is required for eligibility.

• Perform analysis, architecture and design at all system levels—concept, design, fabrication, modeling, test, installation, operation, maintenance and disposal.
• Conduct functional analysis, trade studies, requirements allocation, interface definition to translate customer needs into hardware and software specifications.
• Develop verification criteria, plans, and provide decompositions of system requirements into subsystem and component requirements.
• Plan technical integration, verification and validation, cost and risk assessments, and supportability effectiveness of total system solutions.
• Participate in bid and proposal activities.

• Technical leadership and mentorship opportunities with mission system experts.
• Experience with security‑hardened products, crypto certification specialists, and cross‑functional integrated product teams.
• Exposure to evolving business and product domains in a growing organization.

• Degree in STEM and a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with 5 years of experience.
• Experience with systems development processes: requirements capture, design, decomposition, integration, verification/validation, and transition to production.
• Active transferable U.S. Secret clearance and U.S. citizenship.

• Familiarity with the Scaled Agile framework.
• Excellent communication skills, including presenting technical data to program management and executive leadership.
• Experience with cryptographic hardware architecture, network encryption specifications, and test methodologies.
• Proficiency with tools such as DOORS, CAMEO, or similar.
• Experience in software languages such as Rust and Python.
• Hands‑on experience with hardware and software integration, validation & verification testing, and qualification testing.

$107,500 – $204,500 USD (estimated based on experience, function, and role).

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three weeks of vacation for new hires.
• Generous 401(k) plan with employer match and lifetime income strategy option.
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment programs.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Optional pet, home, auto, and additional life and accident insurance.
• Parental leave, adoption assistance, and fertility benefits.
• Wellness incentives, virtual doctor visits, and child/elder care services.
• Relocation assistance.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. RTX commits to affirmative action for qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans as required by federal law.