Job ID: 5600
Date Posted: November 26, 2025
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 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.
Key Responsibilities:
Supports Program Manager and Lead Systems Engineer in technical management of projects through tracking, risks, requirements, interfaces, configurations, and related tasks
Direct support of the government customer that involves daily interaction and a high-level of professionalism.
Has technical responsibility for planning and conducting technical projects or phases of projects
Designs and coordinates complex systems that involve interdisciplinary engineering such as software, hardware, thermal, structural, optical, and electrical
Defines and develops interfaces between development teams
Ensures common understanding between teams throughout development and is responsible for coordinating the work of many Engineers, each of whom is an expert in one part of a system
Gathers all the necessary information about what is needed in a system, selects several possible ways of designing the system, and uses systems analysis to break down the possible solutions into smaller parts
Creates and maintains programmatic and technical documentation to ensure efficient planning and execution
Mitigates risks while ensuring requirements are satisfied and verified
Coordinates system development tasks to include design, integration, and formal testing
Develops mission CONOPS, maneuvers, and uses
Advises Program Manager on technical requirements on a program
Provides technical oversight of contractor requirements and development efforts
Provides input to overall design, test, and systems engineering processes
Assesses hardware and software designs for compliance with customer mission needs
Required Qualifications:
Must be a US citizen and have an active DoD Top Secret Security Clearance and be SAP eligible
BS degree in a related technical field (e.g., aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related science with coursework in space engineering) and 10-15 years of relevant experience, a MS degree in a related field and 8-13 years of relevant experience, or a PhD in a related field and 4-9 years of relevant experience
Proficiency in providing technical oversight and leadership as the Lead Systems Engineer on small- to medium-sized programs
Ability to mentor junior Engineers and foster collaboration across cross-functional teams, including software, hardware, test engineering, and science
Proficiency in managing risks, interfaces, and configurations on medium- to large-complexity programs
Experience developing and creating system documentation such as specifications, ICDs, and system architecture documents
Strong knowledge of trade studies and design analysis techniques
Experience establishing costs and schedules for engineering activities
Understanding of Mission Assurance and Project Management roles and responsibilities
Ability to present complex technical concepts clearly and succinctly, both verbally and in writing
Proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers, stakeholders, and interdisciplinary teams
Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills with attention to detail while maintaining a system-level perspective
Proven organization and planning skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Must be able to travel occasionally
Preferred Qualifications:
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
Knowledge of satellite communication protocols and standards
Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices related to satellite operations
Experience with satellite ground station equipment, including antennas and RF systems
Familiarity with cloud computing platforms and their integration with ground systems
*Salary Range
$116,000 - $146,000
Salary commensurate based on education and experience
This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.
Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page{rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"} to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 14 days. However, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.
