Sr. Systems Engineer (TS/SCI) - 174

Zachary Piper Solutions; Northern, San Diego (KY, CA); Hybrid; USD 165,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401k plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Zachary Piper Solutions seeks a Sr. Systems Engineer (MBSE) to support USAF weapon system architecture efforts in a San Diego-based on-site role, focusing on model-based engineering and system integration.

The candidate will lead MBSE activities using Cameo and Sparx EA, manage requirements with DOORS/JAMA, and collaborate with software, hardware, and test teams to ensure compliant, traceable architectures and timely delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of systems engineering/architecture experience for weapon systems.
• Strong MBSE experience and tool proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Apply systems engineering principles across the full lifecycle from concept to disposal.
• Develop, manage, and maintain system architecture models using MBSE tools (SysML, UPDM, DoDAF).
• Lead requirements definition, decomposition, traceability, and stakeholder alignment.
• Perform trade studies, risk assessments, and analyses to inform decisions.
• Define and manage system interfaces for interoperability and integration.
• Collaborate with software, hardware, and test teams for cohesive design.
• Support integration, verification, and validation activities.
• Prepare technical docs and briefings for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Work with program management to ensure schedule and budget compliance.
• Identify opportunities to improve SE processes within the program.

Skills

MBSE

Cross-functional collaboration

Requirements management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Cameo Systems Architect

Sparx Enterprise Architect

DOORS

JAMA

Job description

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Sr. Systems Engineer (MBSE) to join our USAF customer program in San Diego, California. The Sr. Systems Engineer will be supporting weapon system capability development efforts, helping maintain system architecture models in Cameo.

Work Environment:

• On-site role in San Diego, CA

Responsibilities:

• Apply systems engineering principles and best practices across the full lifecycle of a technical program, from concept to disposal.
• Develop, manage, and maintain system architecture models using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies (e.g., SysML, UPDM, DoDAF).
• Lead the definition, decomposition, and management of system requirements, ensuring traceability and alignment with program objectives and stakeholder needs.
• Conduct trade studies, analyses of alternatives, and risk assessments to inform key technical decisions and mitigate program risks.
• Define and manage system interfaces, ensuring interoperability and integration between system components.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including software, hardware, and test engineers, to ensure a cohesive and integrated system design.
• Support system integration, verification, and validation activities to ensure the system meets all requirements and is fit for purpose.
• Prepare and present technical documentation, system models, and briefings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Work with program management to ensure technical solutions are developed on schedule and within budget.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and contribute to the continuous enhancement of the systems engineering discipline within the program.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in systems engineering and architecture for weapon systems.
• Strong experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).
• Hands-on experience with Cameo Systems Architect and/or Sparx Enterprise Architect.
• Experience with requirements management tools such as DOORS or JAMA.
• Experience supporting requirements development, verification, compliance, and architectural trade studies.
• Ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and complex organizational environments.

Clearance Requirement:

• Must possess an in-scope T5 background investigation adjudicated for SCI eligibility and enrolled in Continuous Evaluation (if applicable).
• Must be willing to be nominated for access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAP).
• Must be willing to consent to a polygraph examination.

Compensation:

• Pay Band: $165,000 - $220,000 (based on years of relevant experience)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401k, paid time off, with 11 federal holidays, and sick leave.

Application Period: Opens on 09/21/2026 and will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

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