Senior Space Systems Engineer

Job Location Headquarters United States Air Force, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration. Responsibilities The Senior Space Systems Engineer supports by applying systems engineering skills to ensure successful Science and Technology (S&T) capabilities are developed, tested, and ultimately transitioned to advance critical operational space system capabilities. The Senior Space Systems Engineer also serves as the technical advisor to the Space Service Acquisition Executive (SAE) for pre‑acquisition investment decisions, acquisition program technical and engineering integration program risk, and space system and program oversight. This position supports systems engineering oversight and support for program development, documentation, and reviews throughout the acquisition life cycle of space systems, including supporting technology transition to programs of record and between mission partners throughout the space S&T enterprise. The Senior Space Systems Engineer maintains effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, thrives in a high‑expectation work environment, and executes diverse assignments while maintaining strict attention to detail. Support technical transition of key Science and Technology initiatives, including preparation and staffing of required agreements between mission partner organizations. Provide objective information and analysis supporting decision‑making on space‑relevant S&T investments. Participate in tailored system engineering reviews contributing to acquisition program milestone decision processes. Prepare and deliver executive‑level briefings, reports, and summary papers; explain complex concepts in relatively simple language; summarize key decisions and provide recommendations supported by analysis. Support Planning, Programming, and Budgeting of S&T programs, including preparation of Congressional Budget Justification documents, briefings, and management initiatives with the Secretary of the Air Force Financial Management Team; review and analyze program plans, investment strategies, staffing of contract Justification and Approvals, Obligations and Expenditures, and coordinate program reviews with US Space Force S8 staff and other related reviews. Assist in answering Congressional Reporting Requirements and respond to Congressional Staffer action items regarding oversight of space S&T efforts. Provide coordinating support to other Directorates and Divisions, particularly assistance in supporting Original Classification Authority actions on new technology. Any other tasks closely associated with the performance of duties listed above and as coordinated with the contracting officer’s representative. Skills Required Active Top‑Secret clearance with SCI eligibility. Minimum 20 years of relevant national security space experience. Detailed knowledge and familiarity with current Air Force and DoD space programs and missions. Significant experience in space acquisition, system integration and engineering, mission area analysis, or intelligence. Demonstrated understanding of the Space enterprise, including DoD requirements, acquisition, and budgeting processes, and applicable National Security Space (NSS) guidance and policy. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Demonstrated initiative and ability to plan, work, and deliver, both independently and as part of a diverse team focused on delivering critical space capabilities. Desired Skills Familiarity with Defense Space and National Security Space in the areas of policy, strategy, requirements, capabilities, architectures, programs, acquisition, and operations. Familiarity with civil, commercial and international space capabilities. Experience with AFSPC, SMC, NRO, NASA, NOAA. Education Master’s Degree and 20‑25 years of relevant work experience in a scientific, engineering, or technical field. Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in math, engineering, business, or the sciences. Benefits We offer competitive salaries commensurate with education and experience. We have an excellent benefits package that includes: Health & Welfare – Company Paid Major Medical Insurance for employees and family members Dental Insurance for employees and family members Vision Insurance for employees (employee‑paid for family members) Group Life Insurance Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Travel Accident Insurance Long‑Term Disability Health & Welfare – Voluntary Short‑Term Disability Supplemental Life Insurance Flexible Spending Account (pre‑tax deferrals for health care expenses) Retirement Money Purchase Pension Plan – 100% company‑funded defined contribution retirement plan (one‑year entry waiting period and five‑year vesting; core funds available and a self‑directed brokerage account option). Employee Stock Ownership Plan – 100% company‑funded discretionary contribution (100% vested after one‑year entry waiting period). Time Off Tecolote’s generous paid time off benefits give employees the flexibility they need to relax, recharge, and take care of the unexpected. #J-18808-Ljbffr