Ground Systems Engineer

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

Job summary

SAIC is seeking a highly experienced Ground Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA to lead the development, integration, and operation of satellite ground systems supporting national defense programs. This role emphasizes mission management, command and control, and rigorous systems engineering across acquisition, development, and deployment phases.

The ideal candidate will navigate a fast-paced environment, interact with DoD personnel and industry partners, and contribute to readiness reviews and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required with 14+ years of experience or Master’s degree with 12+ years of experience.
• Experience with satellite ground systems focusing on mission management and C2.
• Proven ability to lead in a government/contractor team environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop ground requirements and evaluate vendor solutions in the acquisition phase.
• Support verification, validation, and deployment to operations of ground solutions.
• Collaborate with stakeholders on ICDs, interface maturation, and mission closure.

Skills

Ground systems

Mission management

Command & control

Systems engineering

Acquisition knowledge

Stakeholder collaboration

Communication to executives

Risk mitigation

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Minimum Clearance Required TS.SCI

Job ID 2616526

Location Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted 2026-09-03

Category Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory Systems Engineer

Schedule Full-Time

Shift Day Job

Travel Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required TS.SCI

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain None

Potential for Remote Work ORA_ON_SITE

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 Ground Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Ground Engineer is focused on acquiring and integrating ground solutions to ensure mission success. The ground solutions include command and control and mission management of satellite systems. The efforts will include evaluation of ground solutions, support in early acquisition, studies, and oversight of the development and integration of ground systems. The ideal candidate will have experience in mission management, command and control, and mission integration of ground systems of a space system acquisition to guide the development, verification, deployment, and operations of a critical space system.

Role Responsibilities

• Develop ground requirements and evaluate vendor solutions in the acquisition phase
• Support verification, validation, and deployment to operations of ground solutions.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders on ICDs, interface maturation, inclusion of new interfaces in support of mission closure
• Identify and assess emerging technical and programmatic risks related to the ground systems and collaborate with system contractor team(s) to develop and evaluate mitigation strategies
• Conduct 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.

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 with satellite ground systems specifically related to mission management and command and control.
• 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 required.
• Previous SAP experience desired.

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