Programmatic Space Systems Engineer

Socket.dev; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

SAIC in Chantilly, VA is seeking a Programmatic Space Systems Engineer to collaborate with Government Program Managers, guiding decision-making for reusable spacecraft aligned with US Space Force requirements.

You will direct architecture planning, oversee subsystem development and integration, participate in IPTs and milestone reviews, and help prepare acquisition documents and contract deliverables.

Qualifications

• Experience with USAF/USSF acquisition programs or DAWIA/PMI program management is a plus.
• Thorough knowledge of NRO organizational structures, procedures, and satellite systems.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and lead cross‑functional teams in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Government Program Managers to guide development and strategy.
• Direct technical architecture planning and identify dependencies to meet mission objectives.
• Oversee subsystem development, testing, and integration by developers.
• Participate in Developer-led IPTs and system milestone reviews with strategic recommendations.
• Develop space system requirements and evaluate vendor solutions in acquisition phase.
• Perform risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies across the lifecycle.
• Support acquisition documentation (CDRLs, SOWs, MPPs) for satellite systems.
• Coordinate with COTRs and other SMEs to maintain contract documentation.
• Review CDRL deliverables for content, accuracy, and sufficiency.
• Participate in program reviews and technical interchange meetings.
• Support readiness reviews and major program reviews to evaluate ground system readiness.

Skills

Systems engineering

Space systems

Acquisition experience

Job 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 Programmatic Space Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Programmatic Space Systems Engineer collaborates closely with the Government on a cutting-edge space program, providing guidance for essential decision-making in adapting reusable spacecraft to meet US Space Force mission requirements. The role leverages systems engineering principles to enhance spacecraft subsystems and mitigate technical risks during development. Candidates should possess thorough knowledge of NRO organizational structures, procedures, and satellite systems.

Job Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with Government Program Managers to provide guidance on development and progress and contribute to the strategic vision for future missions.
• Direct technical architecture planning, identifying essential dependencies to adapt spacecraft designs for successfully meeting mission objectives.
• Work alongside multidisciplinary satellite subsystem teams to oversee subsystem development, testing, and integration activities performed by developers.
• Engage in Developer-led Integrated Product Teams (IPT) and system milestone reviews, offering strategic recommendations to optimize system performance and accelerate delivery timelines.
• Develop space system requirements and evaluates vendor solutions in the acquisition phase.
• Perform risk assessments and execute mitigation strategies throughout the systems engineering lifecycle to preserve mission integrity and support program success.
• Support acquisition documentation development (CDRLs, SOWs, MPPs, etc) related to satellite systems.
• Support Contract Officer Technical Representatives (COTRs) and Developers by coordinating with other acquisition domain SMEs and program stakeholders to develop, modify, and maintain contract documentation.
• Review Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) deliverables to ensure content, accuracy, and sufficiency to meet program requirements and objectives.
• Participate in program reviews and technical interchange meetings between developers and COTR.
• 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.

SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities.

SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion.

For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.