Space Systems Engineering Leader, SETA Programs

SAIC; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 200,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

SAIC is seeking a Chief Space Systems Engineer to lead SETA activities for a large NRO-related space systems program in the Chantilly/Reston area. The role oversees system engineering, requirements management, configuration control, and risk mitigation across space and ground architectures.

The ideal candidate has active TS/SCI with poly, extensive space systems acquisition experience, and strong leadership, technical communication, and coordination with government stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph.
• Bachelor's degree with 18+ years experience; Master's 16+; PhD 15+.
• Experience in space systems integration and across the acquisition lifecycle.
• Experience with space-ground systems architectures and lifecycle support.
• Proven knowledge in Requirements/Quality/Configuration Management.
• Strong communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead SETA team and oversee acquisitions, ensuring end-to-end system closure.
• Maintain space and ground system baselines and configurations.
• Manage Engineering Change Proposals and ERB/CCB processes.
• Ensure requirements evolve with change while aligning to government needs.
• Lead VER/VAL activities and verify test strategy and coverage.
• Support risk management, identify risks, and propose mitigations.
• Represent government clients to developers and coordinate with SMEs.
• Review CDRL deliverables for technical accuracy and sufficiency.
• Develop briefings and assessments for government leadership and stakeholders.
• Participate in technical interchange meetings between developers and COTR.

Skills

Active TS/SCI clearance with poly

Space systems integration

Systems engineering lifecycle

Requirements management

Configuration management

Leadership and team oversight

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

NRO/IC acquisition experience

Job description

SAIC is seeking a Chief Space Systems Engineer to lead SETA activities for a large NRO-related space systems program in the Chantilly/Reston area. The role oversees system engineering, requirements management, configuration control, and risk mitigation across space and ground architectures.

The ideal candidate has active TS/SCI with poly, extensive space systems acquisition experience, and strong leadership, technical communication, and coordination with government stakeholders.