Careerscape is recruiting on behalf of our client, a leading defense and intelligence technology organization, for an Expert Systems Engineer to support complex systems engineering efforts within the DoD/Intelligence Community and GEOINT environment. This is an opportunity to take on high-impact technical leadership across requirements, architecture, integration, testing, risk management, and technical planning for large, complex systems that directly support national security missions.
Day to day, you will move between requirements analysis, architecture trade studies, and engineering risk assessments, translating mission needs into concrete technical solutions while guiding engineering teams through complex System-of-Systems challenges. This role suits a seasoned systems engineer who thrives on ambiguity, enjoys shaping technical direction on mission-critical programs, and brings deep credibility from prior work within the NRO or broader IC/DoD community.
Responsibilities
Lead and support systems engineering and integration activities across complex System-of-Systems environments
Translate mission and customer needs into clear system requirements and technical solutions
Perform requirements analysis, architecture development, trade studies, and analysis of alternatives
Conduct engineering assessments to evaluate technical risk and system performance
Support technical planning, project management, and risk management activities
Design and evaluate system and subsystem interfaces
Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend improvements to existing systems and architectures
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams
Collaborate with government customers and stakeholders to align technical solutions with mission objectives
Document and present engineering analyses, trade study results, and technical recommendations
Requirements
Master's degree in Systems Engineering or a related STEM field, or equivalent expert-level experience
Expert-level systems engineering experience supporting DoD or Intelligence Community programs
Prior NRO experience required
Strong understanding of the full systems engineering lifecycle
Experience with large-scale System-of-Systems, cloud, or service-oriented architectures
Familiarity with GEOINT and NSG/ASG environments
Eligibility for and willingness to obtain and maintain required government security clearances
Strong written and verbal communication skills for engaging technical and government stakeholders
Ability to work on-site in Chantilly, Virginia five days per week
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) retirement plan with employer contribution
Paid time off and paid holidays
Life and disability insurance
Tuition and professional certification reimbursement
Support for INCOSE and other relevant technical certifications
Career development and technical training opportunities