Systems Engineer SME

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.; Force (PA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. seeks a Systems Engineering SME to support AFRL/RA in advancing S&T weapon projects through rigorous testing and development. You will advise leadership on engineering matters, translate requirements into system specs, and help shape acquisition strategies for DoD programs.

The role requires deep DoD/AF domain knowledge, experience with GRAs and WOSA, and TS/SI/ SAP readiness. Work includes coordinating across disciplines and presenting technical briefings.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 20 years of Systems Engineering work experience focused on DoW systems.
• At least 3 years of experience in a SAP and/or SCI environment, preferably within the last five years.
• Exquisite knowledge of weapon system Government Reference Architectures (GRAs) and Weapon Open System Architecture (WOSA).

Responsibilities

• Apply understanding of DoD, AF, and engineering principles to advance S&T weapon projects through all test phases.
• Translate user requirements into weapon system requirements for design, fabrication, testing, and deployment.
• Provide technical and programmatic feedback and develop acquisition strategies for AFRL/RA activities.

Skills

Systems Engineering

GRAs and WOSA

DoD/AF knowledge

Acquisition processes

Education

MS/ME degree

Tools

SAP

SCI environment

Job description

How you will contribute to our National Security and Defense mission:

In this role as Systems Engineering Subject Matter Expert (SME) you’ll support the newly reorganized Air Force Research Laboratory Air Warfare Directorate (AFRL/RA) which combined the former Aerospace and Munitions Directorates into a single organization. AFRL/RA is charged with developing advanced air combat technologies to ensure our nation’s advantage in the air domain. In standing up and operating this new directorate, AFRL/RA leadership seeks to introduce greater systems engineering rigor across targeted project portfolios to prioritize and accelerate the development of advanced capabilities. This is where an MTSI [AL1] Systems Engineering SME will make a big impact – by advising and assisting Directorate leadership on engineering matters related to the development and testing of its Science and Technology (S&T) weapon project portfolio. Day‑to‑day activities will involve assisting AFRL/RA technical and program management personnel to optimize technical performance and test activities across a portfolio of leading‑edge Air Warfare programs.

You’ll be a great fit for this role if:

• You have a passion for aerospace, defense, and space systems and advanced technologies.
• You understand the urgent need to modernize our defense systems and give our warfighters the best possible tools.
• Paying attention to detail and providing excellent customer service in a professional environment is a skill you excel at.
• You are passionate about continuous learning and growth, and you seek opportunities to challenge yourself.
• You are driven to make a meaningful impact through your work.

Responsibilities:

Your essential job functions will include but may not be limited to:

• Apply an understanding of DoD, AF, and common engineering/scientific principles, processes, and procedures to advance AFRL/RA S&T weapon projects through all phases of test.
• Apply knowledge of weapon system Government Reference Architectures (GRAs) and Weapon Open System Architecture (WOSA) to ensure S&T weapon projects are compliant.
• Assist in translating user requirements into weapons system requirements which will be used to design, develop, fabricate, test, and evaluate subsystems and associated equipment for eventual fielding and deployment.
• Perform technical and mission analyses of existing and future operational requirements to support programs and projects.
• Assist in developing subsystem concepts and perform technological/trade-off assessment of proposed designs/modifications.
• Support assessment of related AFRL/RA technology initiatives to guide investments and shape transition strategies.
• Assist in developing systems engineering documents and processes for subsystems and associated projects across the customer's portfolio.
• Provide technical and programmatic feedback and advice, develop, and present technical briefings, and develop acquisition products and strategies in support of AFRL/RA activities.
• Provide support for risk management and configuration control processes.
• Serve as an experienced and motivated professional supporting the Air Warfare Directorate by leveraging knowledge of DoW acquisition processes and analytical methods to gather, analyze, and evaluate information for program/project managers and stakeholders.
• Apply expertise in integration, communication, coordination, organization, and planning to technical and acquisition efforts across diverse functional disciplines, ensuring AFRL/RA programs effectively deliver and sustain Air Force warfighting capabilities.
• Analyze issues and develop solutions to improve S&T and acquisition effectiveness and compliance.
• Provide training, facilitation, and decision-support services for offices engaged in group training sessions, collaborative efforts, working groups, or integrated product/process teams.
• Consult on subject matter, lead strategic planning events, and manage discussions involving controversial topics or differing opinions—guiding conversations toward constructive outcomes and actionable plans.
• Document agendas, attendee lists, meeting minutes, and resulting action items for official records.
• Deliver presentations and briefings to large audiences including personnel with significant responsibilities, demonstrating strong public speaking skills.

Qualifications Required[AL2] [AL3] :

• Minimum of 20 years of Systems Engineering work experience focused on DoW systems.
• At least three (3) years of experience in a SAP and/or SCI environment, preferably within the last five (5) years.
• Exquisite knowledge of weapon system Government Reference Architectures (GRAs) and Weapon Open System Architecture (WOSA)

Education:

Possess a MS/ME degree

Even better if you have these desired skills:

• Specific, recent experience with weapon testing.
• Applied knowledge of DoW acquisition processes and terminology.
• Knowledge of and Air Force Research Lab S&T program execution.

Clearance Requirements:

• Active Top Secret security clearance, based upon a Single Scope Background (SSBI/SBPR).
• Must be eligible for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAP) access.