Principal Project Engineer, Test & Validation (Onsite)

RTX•Rockford, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Principal Project Engineer to lead complex engineering development and capital projects at our Rockford facility. This role is responsible for managing cross-functional teams across Mechanical, Electrical, and Software disciplines while ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. The ideal candidate has strong experience with Earned Value Management Systems (EVMS), cost and schedule control, and executive-level reporting. This individual will serve as the primary liaison between Engineering Test Equipment teams and internal/external stakeholders, driving collaboration and execution excellence across the organization. If you are a strategic thinker who thrives in a fast-paced engineering environment, excels at leading teams, and values collaboration across disciplines, this is your opportunity to make a measurable impact on high-visibility programs.

Requirements

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
Prior experience in project management in an engineering or technical environment.
U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Nice To Haves

Proven experience in Engineering Test Equipment or complex system development programs, driving successful project execution from concept to delivery.
Demonstrated success in managing multidisciplinary engineering projects, ensuring schedule, budget, and quality objectives are met.
Advanced expertise in Earned Value Management System (EVMS) reporting and compliance, enabling data-driven decision-making.
Strong strategic planning and risk management skills, with a track record of identifying issues early and implementing effective solutions.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel for financial analysis and MS Project for integrated schedule management.

Responsibilities

Lead complex, cross-functional projects involving Mechanical, Electrical, and Software engineering teams to ensure successful program execution.
Develop and maintain detailed project schedules and budget forecasts for new system development initiatives and capital projects.
Proactively identify project risks and issues, implement corrective actions, and recommend effective solutions to maintain scope, schedule, and cost objectives.
Manage work packages and project performance using Earned Value Management System (EVMS) methodologies.
Prepare and deliver performance metrics and detailed analysis to support periodic EVMS reporting to the program office.
Collaborate with the Section Manager to establish project priorities, allocate engineering resources, and conduct risk assessments.
Facilitate and lead weekly project status review meetings to track progress and resolve action items.
Provide comprehensive project status reports to Senior Management, Program Management, and Finance.
Serve as the primary point of contact between Engineering Test Equipment teams and internal/external customers, ensuring clear communication and alignment of expectations.

Benefits

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!