Space Systems Engineer - SME

We are seeking a highly capable and collaborative Space Systems Engineer - SME to support the Golden Dome initiative's Common Ground Team, a key component of the program focused on ensuring seamless integration and operation of ground systems for space-based assets. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in space and ground systems to design, integrate, and optimize common ground architecture supporting Golden Dome's mission-critical objectives. As a vital member of the team, you will ensure the interoperability and reliability of ground systems to achieve mission goals efficiently and securely.

Contract Overview:

Golden Dome is a national-level, whole-of-nation initiative in which you will play a critical role in advancing next-generation homeland defense capabilities. If you are seeking a fast-paced position focused on developing innovative software for the Space-Based Interceptor mission, this opportunity is designed for you.

Responsibilities:

As a Space Systems Engineer for the Common Ground Team, your responsibilities will include:

System Design and Integration:

• Develop and refine ground system architecture for supporting Golden Dome's space-based operations.
• Engineer seamless interfaces between satellite systems, payloads, and ground stations to ensure interoperability.
• Integrate hardware, software, and networking components for a unified common ground solution.

Requirements Development and Analysis:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to define system requirements for Golden Dome's Common Ground initiative, ensuring alignment with mission objectives.
• Conduct trade studies to analyze and optimize ground station solutions and technologies.
• Translate operational needs into technical specifications for ground systems.

Validation and Testing:

• Design and execute system-level testing processes to validate the functionality and reliability of the common ground architecture.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues discovered during integration and testing phases.
• Document test results and provide recommendations for system enhancements.

Operations Support:

• Provide technical expertise during ground system operations, ensuring real-time monitoring, telemetry, and data flow meet mission-critical requirements.
• Support readiness checks, software updates, and ground system maintenance activities.
• Optimize system performance to increase responsiveness and reliability.

Risk Management and Resilience:

• Perform risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in ground systems and implement mitigation measures to enhance operational resilience.
• Ensure robust cybersecurity protocols and compliance with DoD security standards.

Collaboration and Coordination:

• Partner with multidisciplinary engineering teams, program managers, and stakeholders to ensure the successful operation of common ground systems.
• Act as a liaison between space system teams and ground system teams to align functionality and mission goals.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Produce and maintain detailed technical documentation, including system designs, test procedures, and operational manuals.
• Present findings, updates, and system statuses to DoD leadership and program stakeholders.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field. Master's degree preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in systems engineering for space and ground assets, with emphasis on ground systems integration.
• In-depth knowledge of ground station operations, telemetry, tracking, command systems, and communication architectures.
• Proficiency in engineering tools such as STK, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar modeling platforms.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on large-scale system optimization.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience working on DoD programs, such as Golden Dome or similar national security-focused initiatives.
• Familiarity with industry standards for ground and space systems (e.g., CCSDS, MIL-STD protocols).
• Certifications like Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), Network+, or Security+.
• Hands-on experience with advanced networking technologies, virtualization, and cloud-based ground operations platforms.

Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree with 15+ years' related experience; Master's degree preferred.

Required Security Clearance:
Must have an Active Top-Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility
5 years' prior experience for access to Special Access Program Information (SAP), or Controlled Access Program (CAP); must have 1 year in the last 5 years.

The pay range for this position in California is $175,000/year to $225,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via MTSI's internal or external careers site.

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