Senior Project Engineer – Hardware (Space & Embedded Systems)
Location: Fairfax, VA (Onsite)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Engineering
About This Opportunity
Our firm has been engaged to identify a highly capable Senior Project Engineer – Hardware for a leading developer of advanced aerospace and defense electronics systems. This organization partners with the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and civil space agencies to deliver mission-critical technologies that operate in the most demanding environments.
The company is known for disciplined engineering practices, collaborative development processes, and a strong commitment to innovation. Their teams design and deliver high-performance, radiation-tolerant electronic solutions that enable complex space missions and next-generation defense capabilities.
Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Senior Project Engineer to support the development of embedded systems and space electronics. This role serves as the critical bridge between technical engineering execution and project management, ensuring that complex programs are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
The Senior Project Engineer will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing engineering projects from concept through completion. This individual will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to drive successful outcomes while maintaining strong alignment with technical, schedule, and cost objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Partner with cross-functional teams to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables
Develop comprehensive project plans, schedules, and resource allocation strategies
Monitor project progress and adjust plans as necessary to meet milestones and deadlines
Provide technical guidance and support throughout the project lifecycle
Prepare and present project status updates to stakeholders and senior leadership
Ensure adherence to quality standards and engineering processes
Identify potential risks and implement mitigation strategies
Act as a servant-leader to the engineering team by removing obstacles and promoting collaboration
Facilitate Agile/Scrum ceremonies, including stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives
Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and adjust execution plans accordingly
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and process optimization
Support travel or off-site program activities as needed
Perform additional duties as required to support organizational objectives
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with 6+ years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree with 4+ years of relevant experience
Hands-on experience with PCB design, hardware bring-up, and electronics manufacturing processes
Solid understanding of engineering principles and full project lifecycle management
Proficiency with project management tools such as MS Project, Primavera, or AutoCAD
Minimum of 4 years of experience in embedded systems development
At least 2 years of experience in project engineering or project management
Preferred Qualifications
PMP (Project Management Professional) or Professional Engineer (PE) certification
Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) or Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) credentials
Experience delivering space-qualified or high-reliability products
Benefits Overview
The organization offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, which may include:
Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
Basic Life Insurance with AD&D
Short- and Long-Term Disability
Voluntary benefits (life, accident, critical illness, hospital, pet insurance)
Flexible Spending Accounts (HSA, FSA, DCFSA)
Paid Time Off and company holidays
401(k) plan with company match
Tuition reimbursement programs
Parental, maternity, and military leave
Eligibility for annual discretionary bonus