Principal Systems Engineer – Avionics Development and Integration
RTX· Defense· Oct 14, 2026 · 14d ago
Cedar Rapids, IA
In office
Full-time
Principal
$133K–$210K est.
8+ years exp
Job description
Date Posted:
2026-10-14 Country:
United States of America Location:
US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-105 ~ 400 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 105 Position Role Type:
Onsite U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
The company will offer immigration sponsorship for this position, if needed. The company will seek an export authorization for this role, if required. RTX must be able to obtain and maintain the U.S. export authorization. Security Clearance Type:
None/Not Required Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
At RTX, the world s largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
Collins Aerospace is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join the Integrated Flight Systems Product Line Engineering group. This team is responsible for the design, integration, development, certification, deployment and sustaining of Avionics Systems on large business jets and Air Transport platforms including the Bombardier Global series, Airbus A220, Embraer Praetor, Comac C909, and commercial derivative programs. This is a cross-functional team of systems, software, integration, test engineers, and certification groups developing avionics system solutions on multiple platforms on current and future architectures working with domestic and foreign Certification Agencies in an Agile environment that continuously incorporates new processes and tools.
We are seeking a highly skilled professional with a strong technical background in Avionics Systems Engineering. The ideal candidate will have prior experience in the development and integration of ARP4754A/DO-297 Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) Systems, proficient in multiple aircraft subsystems. This is a hands-on position supporting requirements development, requirements-based testing execution, test script development, execution of scenario-based, robustness, and unintended function/behavior testing in a lab environment. Flexibility is necessary to maximize test assets utilization.
This is an onsite position in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
What you will do:
Complete assignments involving Design and Requirement Developments activities
On-site execution of requirements-based testing, robustness, and Ad-Hoc testing in a lab environment (schedule flexibility is necessary during formal test phases)
Be responsible for the troubleshooting and reporting of issues resulting from development cycles; the candidate will be capable of providing internal status as well as directly reporting to the OEMs as necessary.
Independently operate the rig facilities during testing phases of the program and during troubleshooting activities. A solid understanding of aircraft operational fundamentals is necessary, as the candidate will be required to execute flight test scenarios to validate system functionality and performance.
Test script development and execution
Produce PDR/CDR packages on aircraft features and presenting them to OEMs
Produce system certification level documentation
Integrate and own SW/HW Work Packages and Avionics features coordinating across multiple subsystem functional areas.
Estimate and bid engineering efforts
Provide regular updates on program status to key stakeholders.
Ensure traceability and compliance across all phases of the development lifecycle, adhering to industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Collaborate effectively with engineers across multiple organizations, fostering a positive and productive team environment.
Qualifications you must have:
Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience
Hands-on experience with Integrated Modular Avionics (IMA) at the system level is required
Strong understanding of Avionics, aircraft Systems, and Subsystems.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Previous experience taking ownership of assigned work, following through on commitments, and delivering quality results.
Qualifications we prefer:
Knowledge across multiple Avionics functional areas.
Prior experience with full development cycles, Avionics certification, and a strong understanding of lifecycle activities and deliverables for Avionics programs.
Experience working within regulatory environments, including DO-254, DO-160, DO-178B/C, DO-297, ARP4754A, and FAA/TCCA/EASA standards.
Proficiency in supporting testing activities, including operating rig facilities and troubleshooting during testing phases.
Ability to execute flight test scenarios by leveraging a solid understanding of aircraft operational fundamentals to validate system performance.
Experience with one or more of the following tools/languages is a plus: Python, MATLAB/Simulink, Cameo, or similar engineering tools.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical ideas, assumptions, and issues.
Strong problem-solving skills
What we offer:
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, ID theft protection
Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
Adoption Assistance
Autism Benefit
Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program
Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits
Bright Horizons, child and elder care services
Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program
And more!
Learn More & Apply Now!
Avionics delivers advanced cockpit displays, vision systems, and comprehensive digital solutions for global government, commercial and business aviation customers. We provide connectivity and managed data services to ensure safety and seamless communication for passengers, crews, and militaries, from aircraft and airports to air traffic management. Join us in creating solutions that connect the world, one flight at a time. Start your application today.
Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.
Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.
Regardless of your role type, collaboration and innovation are critical to our business and all employees will have access to digital tools so they can work with colleagues around the world – and access to Collins sites when their work requires in-person meetings.
At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form – with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again. Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day.
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 107,500 USD - 204,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.
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401(K)
Paid Time Off
Parental Leave
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