SAIC · Reston, Virginia, US, US
Join a mission-driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation. As a Cislunar SDA Systems Engineer (Multi-Phenomenology), you will lead advanced multi-phenomenology observational technologies to support critical Department of War priorities. Your expertise in EO/RF sensing, telescope design, and systems engineering will directly impact national security through cutting-edge space domain awareness capabilities.
About the Role
SAIC is seeking self-directed leaders who skillfully navigate ambiguity, solve complex challenges, and bring diverse expertise to a dynamic environment focused on delivering capability rapidly. This role is for a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with a strong focus on advanced multi-phenomenology observational technologies. You will support the development and deployment of satellite ground systems, evaluate vendor proposals, and conduct trade studies to define future satellite capabilities. Success requires adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to wear multiple hats in support of a high-impact mission. Candidates with experience as USAF/USSF acquisition officers or developmental engineers leading satellite programs in the USSF, NRO, or SDA will be especially well-prepared to excel. You will work in a fast-paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision, interacting with DOD, military/civilian personnel, and industry partners. Your ability to communicate with senior decision-makers and facilitate technical discussions with SMEs is critical to success. This is a full-time, onsite position in Chantilly, VA, with a target salary range of $160,001 - $200,000.
What You Will Do
Lead advanced multi-phenomenology observational technologies to support critical Department of War priorities.
Support the development and deployment of satellite ground systems.
Evaluate vendor proposals and conduct trade studies to define future satellite capabilities.
Manage Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) and acquisition documentation (CDRLs, SOWs, MPPs).
Facilitate technical interchange meetings and coordinate with DOD, military/civilian personnel, and industry partners.
Conduct systems engineering milestones (SRR, PDR, CDR) and requirements development.
Design and implement telescope/receiver systems for space domain awareness.
Communicate with senior decision-makers and facilitate technical discussions with SMEs.
What We Are Looking For
Systems Engineering expertise with experience in EO/RF sensing, observational astronomy, and telescope/receiver design.
Experience with systems engineering milestones (SRR, PDR, CDR) and requirements development.
Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) management and acquisition documentation (CDRLs, SOWs, MPPs) experience.
Technical interchange meetings and vendor proposal evaluation experience.
Experience with USAF/USSF acquisition officers (AFSC: 63A) or developmental engineers (AFSC: 62E) leading satellite programs in the USSF, NRO, or SDA.
DAWIA/PMI Program Management experience.
Active TS/SCI with Poly Clearance.
Bachelor's Degree with 14+ years of experience.
Leadership and team-building skills.
Ability to communicate with senior decision-makers.
Adaptability and initiative in dynamic environments.
If you are a self-directed leader with a passion for national defense and space domain awareness, we want to hear from you. Apply today to be part of a mission that shapes the future of national security.