Ground Systems Engineer

Space Systems Integration•Chantilly, VA

About The Position

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is seeking a Lead Ground Systems Engineer to serve as a Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) advisor to a Government Customer in Chantilly, Virginia. The role represents the customer's technical interests while overseeing a Prime Contractor developing a bespoke satellite ground solution. The program focuses on Vehicle Command & Control (C2), Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C), Health & Safety, and Mission Management. The engineer will evaluate system-level architectures, oversee contractor design milestones, and support integration into the customer's broader Enterprise framework on an aggressive operational deployment timeline. This is a system architecture and oversight role; hands-on code development and line-by-line code audits are not required. SSI describes its employees as forward-thinking, self-directed individuals committed to solving customers’ technical challenges. The company offers medical, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) contribution. SSI provides equal employment opportunities and prohibits discrimination and harassment in accordance with applicable laws.

Requirements

At least 10 years of experience in Space Ground Systems Engineering, Ground Segment Architecture, or SETA/advisory support.
Strong background in satellite Command & Control (C2), Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C), spacecraft Health & Status, or Mission Management.
Demonstrated experience evaluating contractor performance through PDR, CDR, ICD development, and V&V/testing phases.
Understanding of high-level system-of-systems integration and network interfaces.
Familiarity with modern enterprise cloud architecture paradigms, including AWS/cloud frameworks, microservices, and containerized deployments such as Kubernetes.
TS/SCI CI Poly clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience working on rapid acquisition programs or fast-paced operational deployments.
Prior experience as a SETA/FFRDC advisor representing government program offices in engagements with Prime Contractors.
Familiarity with AWS C2S or secure government cloud environments.

Responsibilities

Serve as the Government Customer's trusted technical advisor, evaluating ground system designs, identifying risks, and recommending technical acceptance throughout development.
Review Prime Contractor architectural deliveries and system interfaces, and write or evaluate Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for compatibility with larger Enterprise systems.
Lead system-level evaluations during early-to-mid program milestones, including Preliminary Design Reviews (PDR) and Critical Design Reviews (CDR).
Perform in-depth evaluations of ground concepts and module interactions.
Oversee contractor testing execution and verification and validation (V&V) activities to confirm ground system performance meets mission requirements before operational fielding.
Drive rapid technical resolution and balance program trade-offs to keep the program on track for accelerated fielding.