Associate Director - Proprietary Platforms Systems Architect; Onsite

Associate Director, Engineering - Proprietary Platforms Systems Architect (Onsite)

Location: US-VA-STERLING-291 ~ 22640 Davis Dr ~ DAVIS

Date Posted:

Position Role Type: Onsite

Security Clearance: U.S. citizenship required, active and transferable U.S. government issued secret security clearance required prior to start date.

Salary Range: 172,900 USD - 328,700 USD

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Systems Architect (P6) to lead and drive the development of cutting‑edge solutions for classified Department of Defense (DoD) programs. This role will focus on delivering advanced training systems and autonomy technologies tailored to meet the unique challenges and requirements of our defense customers. The role will also entail leveraging / merging technologies and products across RTX to include Operational Analysis, Communication and Networking solutions and Avionics.

The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise, a strong understanding of classified program environments, and the ability to translate customer needs into innovative, secure, and effective solutions.

• Serve as the technical lead architect for classified DoD programs, with a focus on advanced training systems, autonomy technologies and operational analysis.
• Design and develop system architectures that meet mission‑critical requirements, ensuring scalability, security, and compliance with DoD standards and regulations.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including engineering, program management, and customer stakeholders, to define program objectives, technical requirements, and system performance metrics.
• Lead the development and integration of autonomy solutions, including AI/ML‑based technologies, for mission‑critical applications.
• Drive innovation in training systems by leveraging emerging technologies to improve simulation capabilities, operator proficiency, and mission readiness.
• Conduct trade studies, risk assessments, and technology evaluations to inform design decisions and ensure program success.
• Provide technical leadership in the proposal and capture process for new classified programs, including authoring white papers and supporting customer engagements.
• Ensure compliance with all security protocols and classified program requirements.
• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaboration.

• Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and at least 12 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree in a related field with at least 10 years of experience.
• Minimum of 12 years of experience in systems architecture, with significant experience in classified DoD programs.
• Active and transferable U.S. government issued secret security clearance or higher required prior to start date.
• Deep understanding of training systems, autonomy technologies, and their applications in defense scenarios.
• Strong knowledge of DoD standards, regulations, and security protocols.
• Proficiency in systems engineering processes, including requirements analysis, design, integration, and testing.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and manage complex technical challenges.

• Experience with AI/ML technologies and their application in autonomy solutions.
• Familiarity with simulation and training system frameworks, such as LVC (Live, Virtual, Constructive) environments.
• Advanced certifications in systems architecture or related fields.

Some of our competitive benefits package includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
• Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Student Loan Repayment Program
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal,  protection
• Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
• Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
• Adoption Assistance
• Autism…