Space Exercise Systems Engineer | Lead Operational Tests

Systems Planning & Analysis; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) seeks an Exercise Systems Engineer to support space domain programs in Chantilly, VA, ensuring rigorous evaluation of on-orbit capabilities. You will bridge engineering, operations, and mission partners to meet high-priority objectives.

The role requires planning and executing operational tests, developing objectives and metrics, and collaborating with DoD, IC, and international partners. Extensive travel may be required.

Qualifications

• US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly clearance at date of application.
• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, Operations Research, or related technical discipline.
• 9+ years of experience supporting systems engineering, operational testing, military exercises, mission operations, or space system development programs.
• Demonstrated experience planning and executing operational tests, exercises, demonstrations, or capability assessments.
• Experience developing test objectives, operational scenarios, performance metrics, and validation methodologies.
• Experience collaborating with DoD organizations, Intelligence Community agencies, and multi-organizational mission partners.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to develop creative solutions to complex operational challenges.
• Ability to travel extensively to CONUS and OCONUS locations.
• Ability to report to designated work location in Chantilly, VA on a full time basis

Responsibilities

• Design, plan, coordinate, and execute operational test campaigns for space systems.
• Lead development of exercise concepts, test objectives, and performance assessments.
• Collaborate with DoD, IC, and international partners to meet mission objectives.
• Bridge engineering, operations, and mission partners to ensure rigorous evaluation.
• Travel as required to CONUS/OCONUS locations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

Travel readiness

Systems thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering

Tools

Modeling & simulation tools

Job description

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) seeks an Exercise Systems Engineer to support space domain programs in Chantilly, VA, ensuring rigorous evaluation of on-orbit capabilities. You will bridge engineering, operations, and mission partners to meet high-priority objectives.

The role requires planning and executing operational tests, developing objectives and metrics, and collaborating with DoD, IC, and international partners. Extensive travel may be required.