Mission Planning Systems Engineer: Defense Interface

Actalent; Dahlgren (VA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 155,000; Full time

Job summary

Actalent in Dahlgren, VA is seeking a Mission Planning Systems Engineer to support the SLCM-N Fire Control Systems in the SSP mission planning environment. You will define interfaces, conduct investigations, and ensure tools meet complex requirements.

You will review external requirements, develop ICDs, support OTA reviews, and deliver technical briefs to leadership. The role emphasizes collaboration across teams and adherence to security requirements.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Active or interim DoD SECRET clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI.
• Educational level: BS with 5+ years, MS with 3+ years, or PhD with 2+ years relevant experience.
• Experience defining IV&V strategy, planning and execution.
• Knowledge of acquisition processes and SE tradeoffs.
• Understanding of cruise missile flight dynamics.
• Understanding of nuclear warhead requirements and interfaces.
• Understanding of software interfaces and messaging protocols.
• Demonstrated analytical problem-solving in scientific/engineering work.
• Ability to work independently and in teams to meet schedules.
• Experience delivering technical briefs to technical/leadership audiences.
• Initiative and adaptability in a dynamic program environment.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional SLCM-N team to define and review system and software requirements for mission planning tools.
• Review external requirements and ensure interfaces meet SLCM-N needs.
• Develop and refine ICDs with engineering inputs, redlines and evaluations.
• Support OTA reviews to evaluate Developer performance and readiness for software implementation.
• Provide readiness inputs and impact assessments for vendor deliverables.
• Conduct technical investigations and analyses for mission planning tools.
• Evaluate impacts of new capabilities on baseline architecture and workflows.
• Document findings in technical reports and trade studies.
• Prepare and present technical briefs on progress and integration results.
• Support SETRs, milestones and sponsor-level meetings with concise technical presentations.
• Develop milestone briefing packages and monthly progress/status reports.
• Apply analysis to address engineering challenges within schedule-driven timelines.
• Collaborate across organizations and work independently to meet goals.

Skills

U.S. Citizenship

Security clearance (SECRET)

TS/SCI eligibility

IV&V strategy experience

Acquisition process knowledge

Systems engineering tradeoffs

Flight dynamics understanding

Nuclear warhead interfaces

Software interfaces & messaging

Technical briefing experience

Independent work in teams

Problem-solving with analytical rigor

Strong communication skills

Education

Educational level: advanced degree

Job description

Actalent in Dahlgren, VA is seeking a Mission Planning Systems Engineer to support the SLCM-N Fire Control Systems in the SSP mission planning environment. You will define interfaces, conduct investigations, and ensure tools meet complex requirements.

You will review external requirements, develop ICDs, support OTA reviews, and deliver technical briefs to leadership. The role emphasizes collaboration across teams and adherence to security requirements.