Senior Space Systems Engineer

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Job Locations


1 month ago(4/2/2026 8:44 AM)

Job ID


2026-12036

Posted Date


Engineering

Job Location

US-VA-Arlington

Company Overview

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

Position Overview

Join us in our fast-paced support to develop, advance, and sustain weapon systems for the U.S. Space Force (USSF) and its mission partners. You will be joining a team of personnel with experience and an in-depth understanding of the environments that include ground, near-space, space, and any system that operates in those environments to meet current and projected strategic, operational, and tactical needs for the Department of Defense (DoD). QinetiQ is a mission-led innovation company that works with the USSF and DoD to design, develop, field, and maintain requirements essential to national security and the survivability of the warfighter.

We are seeking a Senior Space Systems Engineer to provide expert technical oversight and engineering advisory support across the full lifecycle of space acquisition programs under the SAF/SQ program. The ideal candidate applies disciplined systems engineering practices to help the government develop, integrate, and sustain resilient space capabilities and has a strong background providing independent technical assessments of contractor deliverables and design reviews.

Responsibilities

Provide senior-level systems engineering advisory support for space acquisition programs including requirements analysis, architecture development, interface control, and integration planning
• Review and assess contractor technical documentation including Systems Engineering Plans (SEPs), Interface Control Documents (ICDs), and system specifications; provide independent technical evaluations and recommendations
• Support the revision or drafting of JCIDS and acquisition documentation such as Initial Capability Documents, Analysis of Alternatives, Concept of Operations, Technical/Systems Requirement Documents, and System Specifications
• Advise the Government program manager on technical engagements (e.g., technical interchange meetings, design reviews, program conferences) and establish customer and contractor interfaces
• Provide technical and operational insight to support mission protection, operations, and mission data assessments; recommend viable solutions for technical anomalies
• Conduct technical risk assessments and trade studies; develop risk mitigation strategies and advise government leadership on program technical health
• Provide oversight of contractor design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR); assess technical readiness and identify open issues requiring government action
• Support development of CONOPS, operational architecture artifacts, and integration plans across space, ground, transport, and user segments
• Contribute to Space Force digital engineering initiatives by applying model-based systems engineering (MBSE) methodologies and tools

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, electrical engineering, or a related STEM discipline;
• 10+ years of systems engineering experience with DoD space programs including satellite development, ground system integration, or launch systems
• Demonstrated expertise in systems engineering processes including requirements management, interface control, and verification and validation
• Experience supporting formal design reviews and independent technical assessments in a government or SETA capacity
• Knowledgeable with respect to IC, DoD, Air Force, Space Force, or SSC processes and procedures for space system development and delivery
• Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills; ability to produce high-quality technical documents and executive briefings
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with multiple competing priorities; excellent organizational skills
• Active Top Secret with SCI Eligibility; #qinetiqclearedjob

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree preferred
• Experience with MBSE tools such as Cameo, MagicDraw, or equivalent platforms
• Familiarity with Space Force acquisition programs including OPIR, SATCOM, PNT, Space Domain Awareness, or NC3 modernization
• INCOSE CSEP (Certified Systems Engineering Professional) or equivalent certification

Company EEO Statement

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.