Lead Systems Engineer

Auria; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 145,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense contractor is seeking a Lead Systems Engineer to support projects with the US Space Force. This remote position involves leading the design and development of systems, overseeing testing strategies, and producing essential documentation. Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in engineering and at least 7 years of related experience, including systems engineering on DoD projects. The role offers a salary range between $145,000 - $170,000, based on qualifications and experience.

Qualifications

• Current U.S. Government TOP SECRET security clearance and SCI eligibility.
• Proven experience on DoD/federal programs including software development.
• 7+ years of systems engineering experience on complex space systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of assigned systems.
• Oversee system testing strategies and troubleshoot issues.
• Produce system documentation and communicate technical details to stakeholders.

Skills

Systems engineering experience

Analytical and problem-solving skills

Excellent verbal and written communication

Agile/Scrum experience

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or related field

Tools

Jira

Confluence

Cameo

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Auria seeks a Lead Systems Engineer to support projects with the US Space Force. This role is remote with a location preference for Colorado Springs, CO. The team works on a broad range of solutions from foundational cloud computing infrastructure to mission-specific software applications and development services, including cloud-native infrastructure, scalable platform solutions, Agile software development, mission-driven C2 applications, data integration and visualization, AI/ML, and cybersecurity and zero-trust architecture.

What You Can Expect to Do

• Requirements and Design – Lead the design, development, and integration of assigned systems. Develop system architecture diagrams, data flow diagrams, and detailed design specifications to ensure reliability, scalability, and maintainability.
• Integration and Testing – Oversee system testing strategies (unit, integration, and performance tests). Troubleshoot and resolve issues to ensure optimal operational efficiency.
• Documentation and Communication – Produce essential system documentation and communicate complex technical details clearly to stakeholders.
• Risk and Performance Management – Identify potential system risks, devise mitigation strategies, and monitor performance metrics, adjusting as needed.
• Collaboration and Continuous Improvement – Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, stay updated with industry trends, and incorporate feedback to refine systems. Engage with stakeholders, including customers and end-users, to ensure the system meets operational requirements.

What the Team Requires

• Current U.S. Government TOP SECRET security clearance (requires U.S. Citizenship) and SCI eligibility
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or related field
• 7+ years of related systems engineering experience on DoD/federal programs, including software development, solution delivery, or system integration projects
• Proven experience in design and deployment of large-scale, complex space systems with strong knowledge of SDLC, system architecture, and design principles
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills with the ability to work with minimal oversight
• Ability to create clear and comprehensive system documentation (design descriptions, requirements specifications, test plans, user guides, engineering documents)
• Familiarity with DoD space systems and subsystems, including ground and space components
• Extensive experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) using Cameo, SysML, and related MBSE methodologies
• Familiarity with other engineering disciplines (systems, hardware, test, configuration management, quality engineering) and their interaction with software engineering
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with Agile/Scrum and tools like Jira and Confluence
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products
• Mission-Driven Professional: Collaborative contributor focused on developing cutting-edge solutions for national and global safety

What the Team Prefers

• Experience leading system development and validation testing for prototypes with limited direction
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing technologies and methodologies in space and communication systems
• MBSE certification (e.g., SysML OMG, MBF, MBI, MBA)
• 3+ years experience designing, modeling, and implementing DoD space systems and subsystems
• Experience performing other engineering disciplines and interfacing with software engineering in that role
• Experience with modern IT infrastructure, including virtualization, cloud deployment, and containerization

Compensation

The salary offered will be based on qualifications, skills, education, and experience. Typical range: $145,000 - $170,000

The Auria Team

Auria provides solutions and software for complex Space, National Security, and Cyber missions. We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer committed to diversity and inclusion.