Senior Systems Engineer

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL), a University Affiliated Research Center, has been developing innovative technologies and solutions for cutting-edge DoD and intelligence programs for almost six decades. Our expertise is in space and airborne IR, VIS, UV, and RF sensors, small satellite technologies, test and calibration, cybersecurity, data visualization and assurance, and ground stations.

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a senior space systems engineer to support efforts in Los Angeles, CA for our Strategic and Military Space Division. Candidates are required to have demonstrated superior technical leadership skills and extensive subject matter expertise in space systems and systems engineering disciplines. The selected candidate should be an expert in systems engineering and possess a broad knowledge, understanding, and perspective on the application of systems engineering to the design, development, test, and fielding of complex space systems. The selected candidate will support the Space and Missile Systems Center (SMC) Portfolio Architecture office and their development of the Next-Generation Space Architecture, acting as a technical authority. The SMC Portfolio Architect is developing architecture and technology roadmap products and driving requirements for integrating diverse programs and capabilities across the entire Department of Defense.  

·  Proactively identifying technical problems through application of technical expertise and analysis

·  Providing technical and engineering management support to SMC customer teams engaged in Mission Reviews, Architecture Development, Warfighter Engagement and Senior Leader Reviews

·  Providing technical oversight of contractor requirements and development efforts

·  Developing recommendations regarding risk reduction and future performance

·  Leading, organizing, and conducting trade studies, design analyses, and engineering analyses/studies to identify and resolve issues impacting SMC programs and systems

·  Contributing, as a technical representative, to government acquisition planning and providing independent technical assessment

·  Leading the definition of documentation and processes to support technical tasks as part of government program work plans

·  Informing management and recommending courses of action while maintaining open lines of communication with customers and associate contractors, including other FFRDCs and UARCs

·  Maintaining technical relationships with internal and external customers, technical staff, and management

·  Participating in contractor technical interchange meetings and reviews

·  Reviewing literature and current practices relevant to assigned projects

·  Anticipating risks and developing contingency plans to manage them

·  Effectively communicating technical results, both verbally and in writing

·  Representing SDL at government forums and meetings, technical meetings, and symposia

·  Leading cross-organizational project teams and mentoring staff

·  MS in engineering or related science

·  12 years of relevant experience

·  Demonstrated expertise and experience in space vehicle and/or space systems development, with a sub-focus in any of the following areas: electro-optical/infrared space sensing systems, RF communications/navigation, Battlespace Awareness (BA) / Space Situational Awareness (SSA), or Offensive/Defensive Space Control systems

·  Experience improving existing or developing new analysis tools and techniques to address technical tasks

·  Proven ability to author written reports, briefings and/or professional papers to bring technical issues to closure

·  Strong leadership and interpersonal skills

·  Working knowledge of current Department of Defense classified and unclassified space systems and architecture

·  Working knowledge of state-of-the-market hardware and software capabilities used in satellite systems

·  Ability to work in a fast-paced, initiative-driven environment and can quickly prioritize and accomplish technical tasks

·  Knowledge of systems engineering techniques and their application to large DoD development programs

·  Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with program management, customers, contractors, and colleagues

·  Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers

·  Ability to effectively and efficiently operate in a secure DoD environment

·  Must have an active DoD Secret security clearance and ability to obtain a DoD TS/SCI security clearance

·  Must be a US citizen

·  Must be able to travel to contractor and customer facilities

·  Expertise in three or more of the following:

    o  Architecture product development

    o  Modeling and simulation

    o  Technology development

    o  Space subsystem design

    o  Model-based systems engineering

    o  Software engineering management and technical oversight of software intensive systems

    o  Sensor systems development and design

    o  Complex weapons system requirements management

    o  Design, development and test experience on major Department of Defense (ACAT 1C/D) programs

·  PhD in engineering or related science field, with 15 years of relevant experience

·  Recent experience in space systems programs or technology

·  Experience with DoD engineering policies and best practices

·  An active DoD Top Secret/SCI clearance or current SSBI (<4 years old)

SDL Benefits: SDL offers competitive salaries and unique benefits, among which include a variety of inexpensive-premium, quality health insurance options; automatic employer retirement contributions, up to 14.2% of base salary; flexible work schedules; generous annual and sick leave; and discounted USU tuition of 50% for employees and dependents. At SDL, we take pride in and highly value our employees. Please contact us if you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of applying.