Space Systems Engineer

KBR Careers; Scottsdale (AZ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

KBR is seeking a Space Systems Engineer to join our Hemisphere team, supporting Space Systems Command in Scottsdale, AZ. You will help design and optimize space systems, applying orbital mechanics, communications, sensors, and C2 know‑how to enable the P&D mission set for SSC.

The role demands MBSE experience, strong writing and briefing skills, and the ability to lead in multi‑discipline teams across engineering, operations, and program management while maintaining readiness and security

Qualifications

• Master of Science in a related science field with 3+ years of experience, or a 12+ year combination for Bachelor’s degree.
• Active TS (SCI eligible) clearance.
• Experience with MBSE and engineering best practices.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical, acquisition, and operational support across space programs.
• Support all phases of the space acquisition lifecycle and performance analysis.
• Develop JCIDS documentation (CONOPS, ICDs, AoAs) per DoD standards.
• Prepare status reports and briefings for stakeholders.
• Identify improvements to acquisition processes and risk mitigation.
• Support cost/schedule performance analysis and IMS reconciliation.
• Review contractor deliverables for compliance and performance.
• Monitor program schedules and acquisition implementation; ensure reporting.
• Participate in design reviews, IPTs, and stakeholder coordination.
• Provide mission protection insights and support readiness reviews.

Skills

MBSE

Team leadership

Space systems engineering

Acquisition processes

Technical communication

Education

Master of Science in related science field

Bachelor’s degree with 12+ years experience

Job description

Space Systems Engineer

KBR’s National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and national security communities. In this position, your work will have a profound impact on the country’s most critical role – protecting our national security.

Why Join Us?

• Innovative Projects: KBR’s work is at the forefront of engineering, logistics, operations, science, program management, mission IT and cybersecurity solutions.
• Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives on collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating workplace.
• Impactful Work: Your contributions will be pivotal in designing and optimizing defense systems that ensure national security and shape the future of space defense.

This position is contingent upon contract award

KBR is seeking Space Systems Engineers to join our Hemisphere team. Supporting Space Systems Command (SSC). Qualified applicants will serve as a trusted advisor and expert on space systems control functions and support engineering services required to enable and support the protect and defend (P&D) mission set for SSC. Successful candidates will be highly knowledgeable in design and development of entire space systems, including subcomponents. Additionally, they will be well versed in multiple space operations and space control-related fields, including, but not limited to: orbital mechanics, navigation, sensor employment, communications, optimization, and command and control.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical, acquisition, and operational support across a portfolio of space programs
• Support all phases of the space acquisition lifecycle, including engineering, operations, advanced technology integration, and performance analysis
• Develop and revise acquisition and JCIDS documentation (e.g., CONOPS, ICDs, AoAs, milestone packages) in compliance with DoD standards
• Prepare technical and programmatic status reports and support internal and external briefings
• Identify and recommend improvements to acquisition processes and risk management strategies; support development of risk mitigation plans
• Support cost/schedule performance analysis
• Review and analyze contractor deliverables (e.g., IMS, CFSRs, WBS) for compliance and performance; support DCMA surveillance and IMS reconciliation
• Monitor program schedules, acquisition implementation, and requirement fulfillment; maintain accurate acquisition reporting
• Participate in technical engagements such as design reviews, working groups, and program meetings; support IPTs and stakeholder coordination
• Provide mission protection and operational insight; evaluate technical anomalies and support readiness reviews, audits, and compliance assessments

Qualifications Required

• Master of Science degree in related science field (orbital mechanics, space physics, etc) 3+ years or more of experience.
• Bachelor’s degree is acceptable if the candidate possesses at least 12 years of experience in this type of position or program.
• Active TS (SCI eligible) or Q clearance

Desired

• Experience with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and software engineering best practices
• Experience serving as a team lead, project leader, or program manager on performance-based contracts for the U.S. Government
• Highly adept with writing and delivering documents and briefings with effective communication skills and style that promote a variety of ideas as they pertain to working, interfacing, and leading multi-disciplined team of engineers

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR

At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team’s philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver – Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.