Senior Ground Systems Lead, SDA Space Programs

QinetiQ US (formerly Avantus Federal); Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 185,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

QinetiQ US is seeking a Ground Execution Lead to support the Space Development Agency (SDA). The role focuses on ground segment requirements, system integration, and operations readiness, with a strong emphasis on DoW acquisitions and program planning.

You will work in a fast-paced environment across terrestrial communication elements, HW/SW components, and mission operations, ensuring milestones are met and systems operate as designed. A TS clearance is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in STEM (science, technology, engineering, or math).
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience with satellite and ground systems.
• Technical and analytic understanding of satellite and ground system interaction.
• Experience with DoW acquisitions program planning and execution.
• Experience with FAR/DFARS compliance and supplier/subcontractor oversight.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with excellent oral and written communication skills.
• TS Clearance required. Must be able to obtain/maintain SCI.

Responsibilities

• Advise COR/AOR on DoW acquisitions program planning and execution, including requirements development and tracking, contract management, finance, risk, and stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure PWSA Ground Segment requirements closure and transitions to operations.
• Maintain awareness of baselines, interfaces, and integration touchpoints through milestones and transitions.
• Coordinate and troubleshoot to ensure transitions to operations physically and virtually.
• Ensure documentation, infrastructure, environments, workstations, licensing, and displays are configured and running as designed.
• Collaborate with mission operations to support DOTMLPF-P CONOPS execution.
• Provide expertise across the Systems Engineering cycle and proactively address system gaps.

Skills

Satellite systems

DoW acquisitions

Contract compliance

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in STEM

Tools

FAR/DFARS

Job description

QinetiQ US is seeking a Ground Execution Lead to support the Space Development Agency (SDA). The role focuses on ground segment requirements, system integration, and operations readiness, with a strong emphasis on DoW acquisitions and program planning.

You will work in a fast-paced environment across terrestrial communication elements, HW/SW components, and mission operations, ensuring milestones are met and systems operate as designed. A TS clearance is required.