AI Software Systems Engineer II

Leonardo DRS; Goleta (CA); Hybrid; USD 92,000 - 119,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k)

Paid time off

Job summary

Leonardo DRS Land Systems is seeking a full‑time AI Software Systems Engineer II based in Goleta, CA. This role will analyze, design, develop, integrate, document, and test software-intensive AI-enabled systems across hardware, software, and test disciplines, delivering rapid prototypes and customer demonstrations.

The position offers an in‑person or hybrid schedule, opportunities to collaborate across teams, and a focus on advancing modern systems engineering practices for defense applications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related field.
• 2+ years of relevant engineering experience in systems engineering, software development, AI/ML, data analytics, or related discipline.
• Strong analytical, written, and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Execute the systems engineering process for software-intensive and AI-enabled systems, including requirements analysis, architectural design, interface definition, modeling and simulation, systems engineering documentation, risk management, system integration, and verification and validation.
• Support acquisition and technical evaluation of computing hardware, sensors, software tools, data resources, and subcontractor services for AI-enabled systems.
• Ensure systems engineering process is integrated into program plans with timely technical status, cost, schedule, and risk input for design activities.
• Review customer specifications and requirements, and develop designs to best support them.
• Use systems modeling, simulation, software development, data-analysis, and computer-aided engineering tools to evaluate system performance, interfaces, and AI/algorithm behavior.
• Collaborate in problem resolution efforts and support efforts to attain customer satisfaction.
• Independently complete assigned technical activities on time within budget, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver prototypes.
• Specify and evaluate supplier components, subsystems, and services.
• Develop, integrate, and test rapid prototypes to retire key technical risks.
• Provide technical knowledge and assistance to other engineers.

Skills

Python

C/C++

MATLAB

Data analytics

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering or related field

Tools

Model-based systems engineering tools

Version control

Job description

AI Software Systems Engineer II

Location: Goleta, CA, US, 93117

Job ID:115917

The Leonardo DRS Land Systems business is a recognized leader in the design and integration of complex technologies into new and legacy systems and platforms for global military and commercial customers. We are a 6 year running Top Workplace in the Greater St. Louis area.

Job Summary

Leonardo DRS Land Systems is seeking a full time AI Software Systems Engineer II. This position is based out of our Goleta, CA facility and will have the option to work an in person or hybrid schedule.This position will analyze, design, develop, integrate, document, and support testing of software-intensive systems and subsystems, with emphasis on artificial intelligence-enabled capabilities. The engineer will work across systems, software, hardware, and test disciplines to rapidly mature concepts; demonstrate integrated solutions at field-test and customer demonstration sites; and transition validated prototypes to Land Systems partners and manufacturing operations. The engineer will also collaborate in problem-resolution efforts and support excellent customer satisfaction.

Job Responsibilities

• Execute the systems engineering process for software-intensive and AI-enabled systems, including requirements analysis and engineering, architectural design, interface definition, modeling and simulation, systems engineering documentation, risk management, system integration, and verification and validation
• Support the acquisition and technical evaluation of computing hardware, sensors, software tools, data resources, and subcontractor services needed to develop, integrate, and test AI-enabled systems
• Ensure the systems engineering process is integrated into program plans and provide timely technical status, cost, schedule, and risk input for assigned design activities
• Review customer specifications and requirements, and develop designs to best support them
• Use systems modeling, simulation, software development, data-analysis, and computer-aided engineering tools to evaluate system performance, interfaces, and AI/algorithm behavior
• Collaborate in problem resolution efforts and support efforts to regain or attain excellent customer satisfaction
• Independently complete assigned technical activities on time and within budget, while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated prototype demonstrations and customer-focused solutions
• Specify and evaluate supplier components, subsystems, and services
• Develop, integrate, and test rapid prototypes to retire key technical risks
• Provide technical knowledge and assistance to other engineers and support personnel
• Continuously develop knowledge of the evolving practice of modern systems engineering
• Support, communicate, reinforce, and defend the mission, values, and culture of the organization

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2+ years of relevant engineering experience with demonstrated technical expertise in systems engineering, software development, software integration, AI/ML, data analytics, or a closely related discipline
• Strong analytical, written, and oral communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products and engineering collaboration tools is required
• Experience with Python, C/C++, MATLAB, model-based systems engineering tools, version control, cloud/edge computing, or AI/ML frameworks is preferred
• Competent technical expertise and application domain knowledge
• Ability to work independently

U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.

The salary range for this position is $91,907.00year - $119,480.00/year. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate’s qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. #LSY

Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.

Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:

- Integrity
- Agility
- Excellence
- Customer Focus
- Community & Respect
- Innovation