Systems Engineer

Aptima; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Aptima in Dayton, OH is seeking an entry-level Systems Engineer to join our simulation-based training team on-site at a government customer location. You will work with experienced engineers to install, configure, and test complex M&S systems in a fast-paced environment.

This role emphasizes hands-on learning across Windows and Linux platforms, network concepts, and integration of simulators like AFSIM/NGTS. A U.S. security clearance is required or obtainable; DoD 8140 IAT Level II is preferred.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years in modeling & simulation or related technical fields.
• Basic networking concepts and protocols.
• Familiarity with Windows and/or Linux operating systems.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance.
• Willingness to learn simulation frameworks and M&S tools.

Responsibilities

• Install, configure, and maintain simulation system stacks.
• Integrate simulators and tools using GRID or DIS protocols.
• Support integration of simulation frameworks like AFSIM/NGTS.
• Maintain simulator readiness with documented updates.
• Assist demonstrations, dry runs, and training events.
• Provide entry-level troubleshooting for Windows and Linux across networks.
• Support hardware setup, updates, and facility modifications.

Skills

Networking basics

Problem solving

Documentation

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Tools

Windows OS

Linux OS

Job description

Who We Are

Description

Who We Are

Aptima is a technological leader in the national security industry. Our mission is to drive the future of national security by engineering scalable solutions that fuse technological innovation with human potential to transform how individuals and teams train, develop, and perform in mission-critical environments?. Our culture is rooted in our core values, which have evolved over time and our employees have embraced: Integrity, Ingenuity, Excellence, Respect, Engagement, Teamwork. At our core, Aptima researches, develops, and innovates within an area that engineering firms largely ignore, the human component. To impact the world in meaningful ways, you must bring those innovations to light, and that is precisely what we do.

How You Will Make An Impact

• As a Systems Engineer supporting simulation-based training system integration, you will help advance Aptima’s mission by assisting in the development and sustainment of technical solutions within a government-owned modeling and simulation (M&S) environment. You will work alongside experienced engineers to install, configure, and test systems that enable immersive training and mission rehearsal.
• You will gain hands‑on experience by supporting prototyping, integration, and troubleshooting activities across a diverse M&S ecosystem. Whether helping connect simulators to a distributed simulation environment, supporting technical evaluations, or preparing systems for training events, your work will directly contribute to operator training and readiness.
• This role is ideal for early‑career engineers eager to grow their technical skills, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and work with cutting‑edge simulation technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with installing, configuring, and maintaining simulation system stacks according to current technical baselines.
• Help integrate simulators and tools using common networking standards and protocols such as GRID or DIS.
• Support integration of simulation frameworks and tools (e.g., AFSIM, NGTS, or similar systems) under the guidance of senior team members.
• Help maintain simulator readiness by following established system configurations and documenting updates or changes.
• Work with mission partners to support demonstrations, dry runs, and training events.
• Provide entry‑level troubleshooting support across Windows and Linux systems, networks, and simulation tools.
• Assist team members during hardware setup, system updates, and facility modifications.

Requirements

• 100% on‑site at the Dayton, OH customer location.
• 0-2 years of experience in modeling & simulation, software engineering, computer systems, networking, or related technical fields (internships or coursework welcome).
• Basic understanding of networking concepts and protocols.
• Familiarity with Windows and/or Linux operating systems.
• Interest in learning simulation frameworks and M&S integration tools.
• Strong problem‑solving mindset and willingness to ask questions and learn on the job.
• Good documentation habits and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Must be able to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Desired Certifications

• DoD 8140 IAT Level II compliance (e.g., Security+) preferred or ability to obtain within a reasonable timeframe.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state or local law.