Model-Based Systems Engineer (TS/SCI)

Zachary Piper Solutions; Northern, San Diego (KY, CA); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

401k

Paid time off

11 federal holidays

Job summary

Zachary Piper Solutions seeks a Model‑Based Systems Engineer (MBSE) to support a USAF program in San Diego, CA. The role focuses on maintaining architecture models using MBSE tools and ensuring traceability of system requirements across the full lifecycle.

The position requires 5+ years in systems engineering and architecture for major acquisitions, with hands-on use of Cameo Systems Architect and Sparx Enterprise Architect. Clearance readiness and SCI/SAP considerations are noted.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related technical discipline
• 5+ years of systems engineering and architecture experience on major acquisitions
• Strong MBSE experience with Cameo/Sparx tools
• Experience with requirements management tools (DOORS or JAMA)
• Ability to work across multidisciplinary teams and complex environments

Responsibilities

• Apply systems engineering principles across full lifecycle from concept to disposal
• Develop and maintain system architecture models using MBSE tools
• Lead requirements definition, decomposition and traceability
• Conduct trade studies and risk assessments to inform decisions
• Define and manage system interfaces for interoperability
• Collaborate with software, hardware, and test teams for integrated design
• Support integration, verification and validation activities
• Prepare documentation and briefings for technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Support program management to meet schedule and budget
• Identify opportunities for process improvements within the program

Skills

MBSE

System architecture

Requirements management

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Cameo Systems Architect

Sparx Enterprise Architect

DOORS/JAMA

Job description

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Model‑Based Systems Engineer (MBSE) to join our USAF customer program in San Diego, California. The MBSE will be supporting weapon system capability development efforts, helping maintain system architecture models in Cameo.

Work Environment:

• On‑site role in San Diego, CA

Responsibilities:

• Apply systems engineering principles and best practices across the full lifecycle of a technical program, from concept to disposal.
• Develop, manage, and maintain system architecture models using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies (e.g., SysML, UPDM, DoDAF).
• Lead the definition, decomposition, and management of system requirements, ensuring traceability and alignment with program objectives and stakeholder needs.
• Conduct trade studies, analyses of alternatives, and risk assessments to inform key technical decisions and mitigate program risks.
• Define and manage system interfaces, ensuring interoperability and integration between system components.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including software, hardware, and test engineers, to ensure a cohesive and integrated system design.
• Support system integration, verification, and validation activities to ensure the system meets all requirements and is fit for purpose.
• Prepare and present technical documentation, system models, and briefings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Work with program management to ensure technical solutions are developed on schedule and within budget.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and contribute to the continuous enhancement of the systems engineering discipline within the program.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in systems engineering and architecture for major system acquisitions.
• Strong experience with Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
• Hands‑on experience with Cameo Systems Architect and/or Sparx Enterprise Architect.
• Experience with requirements management tools such as DOORS or JAMA.
• Experience supporting requirements development, verification, compliance, and architectural trade studies.
• Ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and complex organizational environments.

Clearance Requirement:

• Must possess an in‑scope T5 background investigation adjudicated for SCI eligibility and enrolled in Continuous Evaluation (if applicable).
• Must be willing to be nominated for access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAP).
• Must be willing to consent to a polygraph examination.

Compensation:

• Pay Band: $165,000 - $215,000 (based on years of relevant experience)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, paid time off, with 11 federal holidays, and sick leave.

Application Period: Opens on 08/08/2026 and will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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