Space Systems Engineer

SAIC; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

SAIC is seeking a Space Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA to join a mission-driven satellite program. You will apply systems engineering to adapt reusable spacecraft to US Space Force requirements, guiding decisions and mitigating technical risks with government collaboration.

Ideal candidates will have extensive SE experience for satellite programs, knowledge of NRO/USSF processes, and the ability to operate in a fast-paced, on-site team environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with 5+ years experience in systems engineering (or Master's with 3+ years).
• Experience supporting satellite systems development and deployment.
• Ability to operate in dynamic government/contractor environments with DOD personnel.
• Six Sigma White Belt certification.
• TS/SCI clearance is required; SAP experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Government Program Managers to guide development and strategic vision for future missions.
• Review subsystem development, testing, and integration activities by developers.
• Participate in IPTs and system milestone reviews; provide recommendations to optimize performance and delivery.
• Perform risk assessments and mitigation to preserve mission integrity across the SE lifecycle.
• Support readiness and major program reviews to evaluate ground system readiness and readiness reviews.

Skills

Systems engineering

Acquisition experience

Satellite systems

Stakeholder communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree + 5+ years

Master's degree + 3+ years

Job description

Minimum Clearance Required TS.SCI

Job ID 2615654

Location Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted 2026-08-13

Category Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory Systems Engineer

Schedule Full-Time

Shift Day Job

Travel Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required TS.SCI

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain None

Potential for Remote Work ORA_ON_SITE

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 Space Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The 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.
• Work alongside multidisciplinary satellite subsystem teams to review subsystem development, testing, and integration activities performed by developers.
• Engage in Developer-led Integrated Product Teams (IPT) and system milestone reviews, offering recommendations to optimize system performance and accelerate delivery timelines.
• Perform risk assessments and execute mitigation strategies throughout the systems engineering lifecycle to preserve mission integrity and support program success.
• 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.
• Contribute to the resolution of highly complex and multi-dimensional problems requiring consideration of variables that impact multiple aspects of the project/program.
  

Qualifications

• TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Bachelors and five (5) years or more experience; Masters and three (3) years or more experience;
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a government/contractor team environment.
• Experience providing systems engineering support and technical guidance in the acquisition, development, and deployment of satellite systems.
• Ability to work in a very dynamic environment and effectively interact with numerous DOD, military/civilian personnel and industry partners.
• Ability to facilitate technical discussions with SMEs.
• Ability to communicate with a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise.
• Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.
• Six Sigma White Belt Certification.
• TS/SCI required.
• Previous SAP experience desired.
  

Target salary range $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.