Systems Engineer - Space and Defense Systems

About the Role

Join the Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) as a Systems Engineer focusing on software projects that underpin critical space and defense initiatives, specifically supporting the Space Development Agency's PWSA within the Strategic & Military Space Division. This division plays an integral role in national defense by providing the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community with advanced satellite and sensor technologies and expert mission support services.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide expert knowledge on defense mission space and ground systems integration including interfaces, design, testing, and operations.
• Evaluate system architectures with emphasis on interoperability, verification, and comprehensive performance analysis.
• Draft and contribute to engineering and programmatic documentation such as interface control documents, statements of work, test plans, concepts of operation, and system architecture descriptions.
• Lead or participate in working groups addressing interface and independent verification and validation for space-to-ground, ground networks, cloud services, and similar systems.
• Maintain technical communications among various stakeholders including integrated product teams, system providers, and government program offices.
• Lead government evaluations of system validation and verification test plans and executions performed by contractors.
• Monitor system and interface testing with external vendors and mission collaborators, providing assessments and recommendations concerning test outcomes.
• Support program managers and lead engineers by tracking project progress, managing risks, requirements, interfaces, and configurations, while assisting in complex interdisciplinary system design.
• Ensure creation and upkeep of programmatic and technical documentation to promote effective planning and project execution.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship with current or prior government security clearance.
• Bachelor’s or higher degree in engineering or a related technical discipline with over 10 years of experience in space systems engineering, particularly subsystems related to space or ground operations.
• Experience working on government and commercial space mission operations, systems engineering with a solid understanding of space and ground systems.
• Ability to interpret customer requirements to identify technical, cost, and scheduling risks.
• Capability to adapt proactively to new challenges and demands in a dynamic environment.
• Proficient in managing and prioritizing the development, verification, risks, interfaces, configurations, and trade studies of requirements.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to maintain a broad systems-level perspective.
• Skilled in anticipating integration and testing risks related to ground-to-space systems and planning contingencies accordingly.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to foster and sustain relationships with external customers under complex conditions.
• Willingness and ability to travel moderately (approximately 6-9 weeks annually) to support Space Development Agency missions.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range offered spans from $114,500 to $177,000 annually, calibrated based on education, experience, role, and location. Additional benefits include a competitive salary and a comprehensive package to support work-life balance and professional growth.

Why Work at SDL?

SDL is committed to delivering pioneering multi-domain solutions vital to national security and scientific exploration. Our teams include engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals dedicated to their roles in satellite technology, sensor development, ground systems, data processing, and autonomous systems. We promote a workplace culture that values respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability, encouraging openness, knowledge sharing, and integrity. Join SDL to be part of a mission-driven organization with a long-standing track record of success.

Application Information

The recruitment period for this role is approximately two weeks but may vary based on candidate availability and business needs. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit applications promptly.