Systems Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island
Systems Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are actively sought across defense contracting, naval systems, and advanced manufacturing, with demand running from mid-level engineers to senior technical leads. Providence and Newport anchor most of the hiring, with Raytheon Technologies, General Dynamics, and Textron Systems among the most consistent employers in the state. Embedded systems, cybersecurity integration, and systems modeling and simulation are the specialties drawing the most attention from Rhode Island hiring managers. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Position Overview:
Detroit Defense is seeking a Network Systems Development & Integration Engineer who will be responsible for the design, development, integration, configuration, and sustainment of submarine network systems supporting U.S. Navy operations. This role develops software solutions, implements network enhancements, maintains system security compliance, and supports the integration of complex enterprise and tactical network environments. The position works closely with engineering, cybersecurity, and program teams to ensure reliable, secure, and mission-ready network capabilities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop, integrate, test, and maintain software solutions supporting submarine network environments.
- Design and implement system updates, enhancements, and configuration changes using established software development and configuration management processes.
- Develop automation scripts and tools to improve system administration, deployment, monitoring, and maintenance activities.
- Configure, administer, and troubleshoot Windows and Linux-based server and client environments.
- Support virtualization, cloud computing, and hybrid infrastructure initiatives.
- Manage and maintain network infrastructure, virtual appliances, and enterprise services supporting mission-critical operations.
- Implement and maintain cybersecurity controls in accordance with Department of Defense (DoD) policies and security requirements.
- Apply and validate Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and cybersecurity hardening measures.
- Administer Active Directory, Microsoft Exchange, user accounts, permissions, and identity management services.
- Support Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) implementation and certificate management.
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, configuration baselines, standard operating procedures, and system diagrams.
- Participate in system integration testing, troubleshooting, and operational validation activities.
- Collaborate with engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and government stakeholders to resolve technical issues and improve system performance.
- Support disaster recovery, backup, and continuity planning activities.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, or related field. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of education.
- Minimum two (2) years of experience developing software solutions and system updates for submarine network environments.
- Active Secret Clearance Required; Top Secret Eligible Preferred.
- Experience utilizing software development and configuration management tools.
- Experience implementing DoD cybersecurity requirements and STIG compliance measures.
- Experience supporting enterprise network and systems integration projects.
Required Technical Skill:
Experience with the following technologies and platforms:
- Python
- Markdown
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
- Windows Server
- Windows Client Operating Systems
- Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (MECM)
- PowerShell
- DoD Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
- VMware Virtualization Technologies
- Ansible Automation Platform
- Cisco Network Hardware
- Cisco Virtual Appliances
- Network Security (NETSEC) Technologies
- VEEAM Backup and Recovery Solutions
- Aruba Networking Solutions
- Cloud Computing Platforms
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience supporting U.S. Navy or submarine communications and networking programs.
- Familiarity with RMF (Risk Management Framework) processes.
- Experience with DevSecOps methodologies and automation tools.
Relevant industry certifications such as:
o Security+
o Network+
o CCNA
o CCNP
o VMware Certification
o Red Hat Certification
o Microsoft Certification
Detroit Defense offers an impressive compensation and benefits package including:
- Medical, Dental & Vision Benefits
- Company Paid Life and AD&D
- Company Paid Short Term and Long-Term Disability
- Flexible Spending & HSA Accounts
- Legal & ID Shield Services
- 401k with Company Match
- Paid Tuition Reimbursement
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
Why Detroit Defense
At Detroit Defense, we are proud to support the men and women who protect our nation. We deliver mission-critical solutions that enhance national security, protect the warfighter, and enable readiness through innovation, technical excellence, and end-to-end lifecycle support.
Remaining steadfast in our core values of Trustworthy, Mission Driven, Creative, and Agile we are a complex systems integrator for the U.S. Government, Detroit Defense provides solutions to meet the technical and programmatic challenges faced by our customers. Our proven success in multi-domain cross-platform system-of-systems integration results in fielded capability for warfighters. From R&D to production, fielding, and sustainment, Detroit Defense provides services and solutions to Empower Those That protect Us.
Veterans Encouraged to Apply: Detroit Defense proudly supports those who have served. We welcome applicants with military experience, including those transitioning to civilian careers. Your leadership, adaptability, and mission-focused mindset are valued here. Detroit Defense is a proud recipient of the Hire Vets Gold Medallion Award since 2022.
Detroit Defense is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including gender identity or gender expression), age, mental or physical disability, creed, ancestry, citizenship, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, medical condition, genetic trait or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
See All 17 Systems Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island
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Find Systems Engineer JobsSystems Engineer Jobs by City in Rhode Island
Where Rhode Island roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Systems Engineer Job Market in Rhode Island
A snapshot from current Rhode Island openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Teknor Apex Company3

- Mikel2
- Akima1

- Noblis1

- E Logic1E
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing3
- Government & Public Sector2
- Retail1
- Electronics & Hardware1
- Transportation & Logistics1
What Rhode Island Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in systems engineer jobs across Rhode Island.
- Bachelor's degree in systems engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related field required
- Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering tools such as MBSE or SysML strongly preferred
- Active or eligibility for U.S. security clearance required for most Rhode Island defense roles
- Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and systems lifecycle management documentation
- Proficiency in requirements analysis, verification and validation planning, and test documentation
- Strong cross-functional collaboration skills working with hardware, software, and integration teams
Systems Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a systems engineer in Rhode Island?
Most systems engineers in Rhode Island are hired on the strength of a bachelor's degree in systems, electrical, or mechanical engineering rather than a state-issued license. Rhode Island does not require a state professional engineering license specifically for systems engineering roles, though holding a Professional Engineer license recognized by the Rhode Island State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors strengthens senior-level candidacy. Defense contractors additionally expect candidates to qualify for a security clearance.
Which companies hire systems engineers in Rhode Island?
Employers hiring systems engineers in Rhode Island right now include Teknor Apex Company, Mikel, and Akima, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. Rhode Island's concentration of naval and defense programs means large prime contractors and their local subcontractors make up a significant share of ongoing openings in the state.
Which Rhode Island cities have the most systems engineer jobs?
Newport, Middletown, and Pawtucket are the Rhode Island locations with the most systems engineer openings. Providence drives volume as the state's largest metro and home to corporate offices and research institutions, while Newport's naval facilities and defense presence pull strong demand from that corridor, and any suburban areas on the list typically reflect the footprint of a large prime contractor or university research partner nearby.
Are there remote systems engineer jobs in Rhode Island?
Yes, but they're less common than in purely software-focused fields because systems engineering in Rhode Island leans heavily on defense and hardware integration work that requires lab and facility access. About 25% of systems engineer openings tied to Rhode Island are remote or hybrid as of July 2026, reflecting that some program management, requirements analysis, and modeling work can travel. Roles focused on physical integration, testing, or classified programs will almost always be on-site.
How can I get hired as a systems engineer in Rhode Island with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through a new-graduate or early-career program at one of Rhode Island's major defense employers, where Raytheon Technologies and General Dynamics Mission Systems both run structured rotational and associate engineer programs for recent graduates. Lateral moves from adjacent roles like test technician, quality assurance engineer, or systems analyst at a Rhode Island manufacturer or Navy support contractor are also common. A completed MBSE coursework certificate or an active internship with a defense prime strengthens an entry-level application considerably.
Where can I find and apply to systems engineer jobs in Rhode Island?
You can find and apply to systems engineer jobs in Rhode Island on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings in the state. Search the roles that match your experience and specialization, then apply directly to the ones that fit your background.
See All 17 Systems Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island
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