Cislunar Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Systems Engineer (Next-Gen PNT)

Cislunar Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Systems Engineer (Next-Gen PNT)

Job ID: 2614452

Location: Chantilly, VA, United States

Date Posted: Jul 10, 2026

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS/SCI with Poly

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: On-Site

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Job Description

Description

Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation. Our team is developing cutting edge technologies that directly support critical Department of War priorities, combining both proven and first-of-their-kind capabilities that have never been applied in space. Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and direct access to senior Government decisionmakers, enabling us to move quickly and execute aggressive schedules using the most innovative contracting strategies available.

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. Success here requires adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to wear multiple hats in support of a high impact mission. Candidates experienced as USAF/USSF acquisition officers (AFSC: 63A) or developmental engineers (AFSC: 62E) leading satellite programs in the USSF (SSC), NRO, or SDA, applying the full range of the systems engineering discipline (e.g., Requirements Development, Architecture, SE milestones: SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.), and/or DAWIA/PMI Program Management will be especially well-prepared to excel.

Job Description:

This position is for a Cislunar Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Systems Engineer (Next-Gen Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT)) in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Cislunar SDA Systems Engineer (Next-Gen PNT) is a Subject Matter Expert (SME) that will guide the development of next-generation Cislunar Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) and Communications architectures. The ideal candidate possesses expertise in existing PNT and communications systems and will leverage this background to define the core attributes and requirements of a cislunar infrastructure to support national security interests beyond Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO).

Role Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain an in-depth understanding of system level requirements for assigned systems and the design features that satisfy these requirements.
• Support full lifecycle engineering reviews to demonstrate the design meets all specifications and customer requirements.
• Review Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) deliverables to ensure content, technical accuracy, and sufficiency of design details to meet program requirements and objectives.
• Participate in technical interchange meetings between developers and contractors.
• Evaluate vendor proposals and review technical reports, design artifacts, and program plans.
• Serve as a system engineering liaison to other divisions in the SPO.
• Conducts trade studies to define and refine requirements for future satellite capabilities
• Support acquisition documentation development (CDRLs, SOWs, MPPs, etc) related to ground systems
• Support readiness reviews and major program reviews to evaluate ground system readiness
• Resolve highly complex and multi-dimensional problems requiring consideration of variables that impact multiple aspects of the project/program.
• Develop documents and briefings to communicate work or study status and brief Government and industry as required.
• Provide critical technical insight evaluating potential PNT and communications technologies for coverage, capacity, and quality of service, ensuring compatibility and interoperability for future Earth-Moon operations.

Qualifications

• TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a government/contractor team environment.
• Experience providing systems engineering support and technical guidance in the acquisition, development, and deployment of satellite ground systems.
• Ability to work in a very dynamic environment and effectively interact with numerous DOD, military/civilian personnel and industry partners.
• Ability to facilitate technical discussions with SMEs.
• Ability to communicate with a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise.
• Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.
• Active TS/SCI with current Poly Required.
• Previous SAP experience Preferred.
• Bachelor's degree required / Master's degree preferred.

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

Overview

SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.

SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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