Experienced Multidisciplinary Systems Engineer

Utah State University, Space Dynamics Laboratory•Albuquerque, NM

26d•$140,000 - $180,000

About The Position

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced Multidisciplinary Systems Engineer to develop, integrate, and test satellite ground system solutions. The successful candidate will play a key role in defining ground system architectures, coordinating interdisciplinary engineering efforts, managing requirements, risks, interfaces, and configurations, and ensuring cohesive technical execution across multiple teams. This senior position is ideal for candidates with deep systems engineering expertise, strong leadership and communication skills, and a proven ability to guide multi-disciplinary teams, resolve cross-cutting technical challenges, and drive successful program outcomes in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment. The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation's defense capabilities.

Requirements

Must be a US citizen and have an active DoD Top Secret Security Clearance and be SAP eligible
BS in engineering or related science and 15+ years of relevant experience, or a MS and 13+ years of relevant experience, or a PhD and 9+ years of relevant experience
Basic knowledge of cloud architectures and interfaces
Advanced leadership capability, providing technical oversight as Lead Systems Engineer on medium- to large-sized, high-complexity programs
Mastery of core systems engineering processes, including requirements development and verification, risk management, interface control, configuration management, and system trade studies
Strong analytical and problem-solving ability, with a proven track record of responding resourcefully to new challenges, changing requirements, and evolving program conditions
Exceptional communication and relationship skills with the ability to relate effectively to stakeholders at all levels, preserve relationships under pressure, and clearly present technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
Demonstrated ability to lead and influence interdisciplinary engineering teams, providing direction during design, integration, proposal development, and system reviews
Experience mentoring and developing junior and mid-level Engineers, raising organizational capability in systems engineering principles and best practices
Proficiency in evaluating vendor and subcontractor capabilities, ensuring delivered products and services satisfy system-level requirements
Highly organized with strong planning skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain technical baselines, and provide accurate cost and schedule inputs to Program Managers and proposal efforts
Strong system-level focus with attention to detail, ensuring technical completeness while maintaining awareness of mission, operational context, and program constraints
Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and systems engineering tools and analysis methods
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, contributing individually while strengthening team performance
Ability to travel as required

Nice To Haves

Experience with Agile methodologies to define requirements and develop systems
Experience with national security and Air Force space and ground systems
Experience with Command, Control, Battle Management, and Communications (C2BMC)
Experience with mission planning for government programs
Experience with ground systems including both software and hardware ground component functionality
Knowledge of satellite communication protocols and standards
Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices related to satellite operations
Experience with satellite ground station equipment and connectivity, including antennas and RF systems
Familiarity with cloud computing platforms and their integration with ground systems

Responsibilities

Leads system-level design efforts and functions as Project/Lead Engineer for major programs, directing and evaluating engineering activities across disciplines
Provides direct support to the government customer that involves daily interaction and a high level of professionalism
Coordinates and integrates interdisciplinary engineering efforts across software, hardware, thermal, structural, optical, electrical, and related domains
Defines, develops, and manages interfaces between development teams to ensure consistent understanding, alignment, and technical integrity throughout development
Gathers system-level requirements, evaluates design alternatives, performs systems analysis, and decomposes solutions into actionable engineering tasks
Manages system development tasks including design, integration, verification, and formal testing
Creates, maintains, and leads documentation, processes, and technical baselines required for program planning, execution, and reviews
Provides technical recommendations, corrections, and guidance on engineering approaches and analyses
Reviews relevant literature, patents, and current practices to inform system development and maintain technical rigor
Advises Program Managers on technical requirements, system impacts, and risks; serves as a technical interface with customers as needed
Assists Program Managers in leading development teams, tracking risks, requirements, interfaces, configurations, and project performance
Coordinates engineering and technical support staff to ensure deliverables meet requirements, comply with organizational standards, and remain on schedule and within budget
Leads or supports development of mission concepts of operations (CONOPS), operational uses, and system maneuver strategies
Evaluates vendor and subcontractor capabilities to ensure delivered products and services satisfy system-level requirements
Supports or leads proposal efforts, including managing small projects, coordinating technical inputs, and developing long-term customer relationships
Cultivates business development opportunities and maintains professional relationships with customers to secure follow-on work
Presents technical work at conferences or meetings as required
Mentors mid-level and junior Engineers, contributing to workforce development and improving organizational systems engineering capability