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.

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