Cislunar Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Systems Engineer (Multi-Phenomenology)

Saic; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

SAIC in Chantilly, VA is seeking a Cislunar SDA Systems Engineer (Multi-Phenomenology) to lead advanced satellite sensing programs. The role emphasizes EO/RF sensing, telescope/receiver design, and integration with ground systems to support rapid, high-impact space capabilities.

The ideal candidate has extensive systems engineering experience, active TS/SCI with Poly, and a background in acquisition environments. Target salary range $160k–$200k with competitive benefits and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree plus 14+ years or Master's with 12+ years experience in systems engineering.
• Experience in satellite ground systems development and deployment.
• Ability to work in dynamic government/contractor teams.
• Active TS/SCI with current Poly.
• Previous SAP experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain an in-depth understanding of system level requirements for assigned systems and the design features that satisfy these requirements.
• Support full lifecycle engineering reviews to demonstrate the design meets all specifications and customer requirements.
• Review Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) deliverables to ensure content, technical accuracy, and sufficiency of design details to meet program requirements and objectives.
• Participate in technical interchange meetings between developers and contractors.
• Evaluate vendor proposals and review technical reports, design artifacts, and program plans.

Skills

Systems engineering

Leadership

Interagency collaboration

EO/RF sensing

SAP experience

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Job description

Description

Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation. Our team is developing cutting edge technologies that directly support critical Department of War priorities, combining both proven and first-of-their-kind capabilities that have never been applied in space. Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and direct access to senior Government decisionmakers, enabling us to move quickly and execute aggressive schedules using the most innovative contracting strategies available.

SAIC is seeking self-directed leaders who skillfully navigate ambiguity, solve complex challenges, and bring diverse expertise to a dynamic environment focused on delivering capability rapidly. Success here requires adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to wear multiple hats in support of a high impact mission. Candidates experienced as USAF/USSF acquisition officers (AFSC: 63A) or developmental engineers (AFSC: 62E) leading satellite programs in the USSF (SSC), NRO, or SDA, applying the full range of the systems engineering discipline (e.g., Requirements Development, Architecture, SE milestones: SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.), and/or DAWIA/PMI Program Management will be especially well-prepared to excel.

Job Description

This position is for a Cislunar Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Systems Engineer (Multi-Phenomenology) inChantilly, VAsupporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Cislunar SDA Systems Engineer (Multi-Phenomenology) is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with a strong focus on advanced multi-phenomenology observational technologies. The ideal candidate possesses expertise in electro-optical (EO) and/or passive radio frequency (RF) sensing, observational astronomy, and cutting-edge telescope/receiver design to support the detection, tracking, and characterization of faint objects and signals in the cislunar regime.

Role Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain an in-depth understanding of system level requirements for assigned systems and the design features that satisfy these requirements.
• Support full lifecycle engineering reviews to demonstrate the design meets all specifications and customer requirements.
• Review Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) deliverables to ensure content, technical accuracy, and sufficiency of design details to meet program requirements and objectives.
• Participate in technical interchange meetings between developers and contractors.
• Evaluate vendor proposals and review technical reports, design artifacts, and program plans.
• Serve as a system engineering liaison to other divisions in the SPO.
• Conducts trade studies to define and refine requirements for future satellite capabilities
• Support acquisition documentation development (CDRLs, SOWs, MPPs, etc) related to ground systems
• Support readiness reviews and major program reviews to evaluate ground system readiness
• Resolve highly complex and multi-dimensional problems requiring consideration of variables that impact multiple aspects of the project/program.
• Develop documents and briefings to communicate work or study status and brief Government and industry as required.
• Provide technical insight for EO/RF sensor designs.
• Evaluate proposals for next-generation optical and RF sensor architectures.
• Support the integration of ground- and space-based sensor systems into existing sensing networks.

Qualifications

• TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a government/contractor team environment.
• Experience providing systems engineering support and technical guidance in the acquisition, development, and deployment of satellite ground systems.
• Ability to work in a very dynamic environment and effectively interact with numerous DOD, military/civilian personnel and industry partners.
• Ability to facilitate technical discussions with SMEs.
• Ability to communicate with a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise.
• Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.
• Active TS/SCI withcurrent Poly Required.
• Previous SAP experience Preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree required / Master’s degree preferred.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.