NC2/NC3 Systems Engineer

The MITRE Corporation • New Bedford, MA

2d • $146,400 - $219,600 • Onsite

About The Position

MITRE's Nuclear Enterprise division is seeking engineers with firsthand knowledge of how NC2/NC3 systems operate in practice. This role offers the opportunity to shape the nuclear enterprise from the outside, leveraging operational insights to address significant modernization challenges within the Air Force. You will evaluate future NC3 architectures, define requirements, and advise senior sponsors on strategy, directly guiding large-scale acquisitions and capabilities across the nuclear enterprise. MITRE is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to working in the public interest, operating R&D centers for the government that create lasting impact in diverse fields. Our workplace values competitive benefits, exceptional professional development, and a culture of innovation.

Requirements

• Typically requires a minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related engineering discipline; or 6 years and a Master’s degree; or PhD with 3 years’ experience; or equivalent combination of related education and work experience.
• 5–8 years working directly within the NC2/NC3 mission area — as a military operator (e.g., STRATCOM, AFGSC, Navy SSBN/SSGN, airborne NC3 platforms), an acquisition or requirements professional, or a defense contractor supporting NC3 programs
• Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain Top Secret/SCI and SAP
• U.S. citizenship required
• Demonstrated ability to operate independently, adapt to evolving sponsor requirements, and deliver in ambiguous environments
• Strong communication skills with experience briefing senior military or civilian leadership
• This position requires a minimum of 4 days per week on-site in Bedford, MA

Nice To Haves

• Prior military service in a nuclear-related role — e.g., USAF 13N (Nuclear and Missile Operations), 21M (Munitions and Missile Maintenance), submarine warfare officer, or airborne NC3 crew — or equivalent civilian/contractor experience
• Prior assignment at a Combatant Command or Joint Staff level (STRATCOM, AFGSC, OSD, DTRA, or similar)
• Familiarity with NC3 systems and programs such as MEECN, AEHF, E-6B TACAMO, or related survivable communications architectures
• Experience with DoD acquisition regulations, JROC/requirements processes, or NC3 modernization programs
• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering or technical discipline
• Current/active Top Secret clearance
• Prior leadership experience in a technical or operational context
• Familiarity with MITRE’s existing nuclear enterprise work

Responsibilities

• Serve as a multi-discipline systems engineer with a primary focus on the NC2 and NC3 operational domain
• Address operational challenges in nuclear command and control, drawing on direct mission experience
• Define and evaluate potential NC3 future architectures for near-term implementation and long-term positioning
• Provide technical leadership and unbiased advice to DoD sponsors across a broad spectrum of issues
• Apply advanced capabilities and technology to real-world operational needs
• Address international security problems in the context of nuclear enterprise modernization

Benefits

• competitive benefits
• exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth
• a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior