Principal Engineer, Project Engineering (onsite)

Principal Project Engineer

Collins Aerospace in Rockford, IL is seeking a Principal Project Engineer to lead the development of advanced electric power systems programs. As the Integration Product Team (IPT) Lead, you'll oversee technical execution, schedule, and budget while mentoring engineers and driving transformation. This high-impact role partners closely with the Program Management Office and Chief Engineer to deliver results in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.

What You Will Do

• Lead LRU-level efforts including definition, development, testing, and initial production to meet technical and system requirements.
• Investigate field performance issues and drive effective Root Cause and Corrective Action (RCCA) to closure.
• Plan and execute program activities to meet key internal and customer milestones—hardware deliveries, qualification events, and flight/lab test support.
• Manage work scope, support RFQs, lead customer communications, track schedules using EVMS, and ensure timely closure of action items.
• Collaborate with Collins Supply Chain and suppliers to ensure quality, cost, and delivery targets are met.
• Track and respond to key program metrics (budget, quality, schedule), implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Build and manage the annual budget, securing the resources needed to support program objectives.
• Maintain a strong focus on customer satisfaction and product quality across all phases of the program.
• Identify program risks early and implement mitigation strategies to minimize impact.
• Communicate effectively through regular status updates to program leadership, management, and customers.
• Leverage CORE practices and tools as needed to promote standard work, mitigate risks, and improve overall execution.

Qualifications You Must Have

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) unless prohibited by local laws/regulations and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience.

Qualifications We Prefer

• Degree in engineering or a related technical discipline (advanced degree preferred).
• Project management experience, including planning, execution, and risk management aligned with CORE principles when applicable - PMP certification or equivalent program/project management training (preferred).
• Ability to lead and collaborate within multidisciplinary teams across engineering, operations, and supply chain functions.
• Experience in the aerospace industry, with an understanding of the unique challenges of defense and aviation programs.
• Working knowledge of industry design standards and best practices for aerospace systems and components.
• Experience with FAA conformity requirements and compliance processes, including documentation and oversight.
• Experience managing concurrent development efforts of medium to large scale, balancing scope, schedule, and resources effectively.
• Experience with CORE tools and methodologies as needed to drive standard work, continuous improvement, and operational excellence.

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!

May be eligible for relocation.