Systems Engineering & Acquisition Program Manager

KBR Careers; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 121,000 - 151,000; Full time

Job summary

KBR is seeking a Strategic Systems Engineer to support DoD satellite communications and space systems programs. The role provides technical and programmatic leadership across acquisition planning, requirements development, and modernization efforts.

The ideal candidate has IPT leadership experience, TS clearance, and a strong background in systems engineering. This on-site position in El Segundo offers challenging projects and collaboration with government and industry partners to shape national

Qualifications

• Active Top Secret clearance required.
• Bachelor's degree in engineering, aerospace, systems engineering, physics, mathematics, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in DoD/space acquisition programs.
• Experience with SATCOM space and ground systems.
• Experience leading IPTs and coordinating with government/industry.
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition lifecycle processes.
• Strong written and verbal communication; proficient in MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Lead systems engineering and acquisition activities for Strategic SATCOM, NC3, and space systems.
• Develop and evaluate architecture concepts, technical baselines, requirements, and modernization strategies.
• Conduct system trade studies and technical assessments evaluating cost, schedule, performance, and risk impacts.
• Support acquisition strategies, program plans, and requirements documentation.
• Coordinate with government agencies, contractors, and external stakeholders for mission alignment.
• Facilitate technical working groups, IPTs, and cross-functional reviews.
• Support CONOPS development, operational analyses, and mission planning efforts.
• Track program risks, opportunities, schedules, and technical performance measures.
• Assist with executive-level communications, decision briefings, and stakeholder engagement.
• Support digital engineering, knowledge management, and data management initiatives across program offices.

Skills

Top Secret clearance

DoD acquisition experience

Systems engineering

IPTs leadership

SATCOM systems

Stakeholder coordination

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Job description

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

Title

Strategic 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.

KBR is seeking a Systems Engineering & Acquisition Program Manager to support advanced Department of Defense satellite communications and space systems programs. The successful candidate will provide technical and programmatic leadership for acquisition planning, requirements development, systems engineering, stakeholder coordination, and strategic modernization efforts across protected SATCOM and NC3-related architectures.

The ideal candidate possesses experience leading Integrated Product Teams (IPTs), supporting acquisition programs, developing modernization strategies, conducting trade studies, and coordinating across government, contractor, and operational stakeholders.

The MSEIT effort provides leading-edge Systems Engineering & Integration (SE&I) for the United States Space Force's (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC). We acquire state-of-the-art Military and Commercial Satellite Communications (SATCOM) systems, providing global secure, survivable, and protected communications for our nation's warfighters. We seek technical individuals who will thrive in a highly collaborative work environment of small teams, using the most modern tools and methodologies to tackle the challenges of integrating complex space and ground communications systems.

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.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead systems engineering and acquisition activities supporting Strategic SATCOM, NC3, and enterprise space systems.
• Develop and evaluate architecture concepts, technical baselines, requirements, and modernization strategies.
• Conduct system trade studies and technical assessments evaluating cost, schedule, performance, and risk impacts.
• Support development of acquisition strategies, program plans, and requirements documentation.
• Coordinate with government agencies, operational users, contractors, and external stakeholders to ensure mission alignment.
• Facilitate technical working groups, integrated product teams, and cross-functional engineering reviews.
• Support CONOPS development, operational analyses, and mission planning efforts.
• Track program risks, opportunities, schedules, and technical performance measures.
• Assist with executive-level communications, decision briefings, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Support digital engineering, knowledge management, and data management initiatives across program offices.
• Provide support during technical reviews, milestone events, and acquisition decision activities.

Work Environment

• Location: On-site
• Travel Requirements: Infrequent
• Working Hours: Standard

Required Qualifications

• Active Top Secret clearance, with SCI eligibility
• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or related technical discipline
• 5+ years of experience supporting DoD, Space Force, Air Force, Navy, or related acquisition programs
• Experience with systems engineering and technical baseline management
• Experience supporting satellite communications (SATCOM) space systems, ground systems, or terminal systems
• Experience supporting Evolved Strategic SATCOM (ESS), Protected SATCOM, NC3, GPS, PNT, or MILSATCOM program space, ground, or terminal systems
• Experience leading or participating in Integrated Product Teams (IPTs)
• Familiarity with acquisition lifecycle processes and DoD acquisition regulations
• Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders across government and industry organizations
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)

Desired Qualifications

• Experience supporting Evolved Strategic SATCOM (ESS), Protected SATCOM, NC3, GPS, PNT, or MILSATCOM programs
• Experience developing Concepts of Operations (CONOPS)
• Experience supporting modernization initiatives and technology insertion efforts
• Experience conducting technical trade studies and architecture evaluations
• Experience working with international partners and joint-service organizations
• Veteran, military officer, or government acquisition experience
• Master's degree in Engineering, Systems Engineering, Business, or equivalent field
• Certifications, such INCOSE CSEP or ESEP

Basic Compensation:

$121,000 to $151,000 in El Segundo, CA

The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're excited about making a significant impact in the field of space defense and working on projects that matter, we encourage you to apply and join our team.

KBR Benefits

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule. We support career advancement through professional training and development.

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'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.

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