Systems Engineer (Top Secret Clearance)

Job Title: Systems Integration Engineer (Top Secret Clearance Required)

Job Description

We are seeking a hands-on Systems Engineer to support a program that has reached Critical Design Review (CDR) maturity and is entering a highly active system integration and verification phase. This engineer will operate on the right side of the V-model, focusing on system integration, test development, requirements verification, and SIL-based validation. The role is based onsite in Grand Rapids, MI, working in a System Integration Lab (SIL) where software, firmware, and hardware are being brought together and proven out. This position is ideal for a systems engineer who enjoys direct hardware interaction, writing and automating test procedures, and validating system-level requirements in a lab environment.

Responsibilities

• Execute right-side V systems engineering activities, including system integration, verification, and validation.
• Work in a System Integration Lab (SIL) to integrate software, firmware, and hardware components.
• Interface directly with hardware, test racks, and lab equipment.
• Develop, execute, and automate test protocols and procedures to verify system-level requirements.
• Write Python-based scripts for both automated regression/overnight testing and manual verification procedures.
• Support verification of approximately 2,000 system-level requirements.
• Use and troubleshoot serial, JTAG, and Ethernet interfaces.
• Collaborate with SIL, hardware, firmware, and software teams to identify and resolve integration issues.
• Analyze test results to determine system functionality and interpret schematics and hardware documentation.
• Support networking-related system verification activities.

Essential Skills

• Active Top Secret (TS) security clearance.
• Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• Experience operating on the right side of the V-model.
• Hands-on experience in a hardware-focused integration lab or SIL environment.
• Ability to interface with hardware, work with test racks, and troubleshoot system-level issues.
• Experience writing test procedures, verification plans, and automation scripts.
• Proficiency in Python scripting.
• Experience with serial, JTAG, and Ethernet interfaces.
• Networking fundamentals knowledge.
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and hardware designs.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience supporting programs post-CDR entering integration and verification phases.
• Experience supporting hardware-centric systems.
• Experience managing and verifying large-scale system requirements.
• Experience working in classified laboratory environments.

Work Environment

The work environment is based onsite in Grand Rapids, MI, within a System Integration Lab (SIL). The role involves direct interaction with hardware, software, and firmware components. It requires working with various test racks and lab equipment, engaging in system integration activities, and collaborating with diverse teams to resolve integration issues. The position demands proficiency in networking and the ability to troubleshoot system-level issues using advanced interfaces.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $62.50 - $85.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Grand Rapids,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 29, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.