The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL), a University Affiliated Research Center, has been developing innovative technologies and solutions for cutting-edge Department of Defense (DoD) and intelligence programs for almost six decades. Our expertise is in space and airborne sensors (IR, VIS, UV, SAR, and RF), custom satellite technologies, cybersecurity, data visualization and assurance, and ground systems.

The Space Development Agency’s (SDA) mission is to create a National Defense Space Architecture from existing government systems. The purpose of this architecture is to support the tactical warfighter. Innovative, disciplined, yet creative minds are required. A desire for continuous learning is required.

SDL is seeking a senior, highly motivated space systems engineer to support efforts in Huntsville, AL for multiple customers, including SDA, which will be a research and development arm of the new U. S. Space Force. Candidates are required to have demonstrated, superior, technical leadership skills and extensive subject matter expertise in space systems and systems engineering disciplines. An active TS/SCI clearance is required.

DoD/IC-related expertise is desirable. The selected candidate should be an expert/emerging-expert in systems engineering and a specific technical area. The candidate should possess a broad knowledge, understanding, and perspective on the application of systems engineering to the design, development, test, and fielding of complex space sensor systems. The selected candidate will support the SDA and their development of the Next-Generation DoD Space Architecture, as well as other Huntsville space systems customers. Extensive experience is desired in the development and/or test and evaluation of space-based electro-optical systems for detecting ballistic missiles and hypersonic glide vehicles. SDA is developing architecture and technology roadmap products and driving requirements for integrating diverse programs and capabilities across the entire DoD. Capability layers focus on transport/communications, advanced missile threat tracking, custody, deterrence, battlespace awareness, alternate navigation, and architectural integration through the implementation of proliferated Low Earth Orbit (LEO) architectures.

Key Duties:

· Work directly with government programmatic and systems engineering/technical leads to define architecture, activities, work plans, and acquisition approaches; monitor and direct technical progress; support verification and deployment; and engage in capability demonstrations and training of the warfighter

· Lead, organize, and conduct trade studies, design analyses, and engineering analyses/studies to identify and resolve issues impacting SDA programs and systems

· Proactively identify technical problems through application of technical expertise and analysis

· Utilize connections within the Intelligence Community (IC) and the DoD to find resources, partnership opportunities, related program activities, and technical data

· Support SDA activities by providing technical leadership in multiple areas within and across SDA architecture layers and teams

· Inform management and recommend courses of action while maintaining open lines of communication with customers and associate contractors

· Anticipate risks and develop contingency plans to manage them

· Effectively communicate technical results, both verbally and in writing

· Represent SDL at government forums and meetings, technical meetings, and symposia

· Lead cross-organizational project teams and mentoring staff

Required Qualifications:

· Demonstrated expertise and experience in space vehicle and/or space systems development, with a sub-focus in any of the SDA layer technologies

· MS in engineering or related science

· 15+ years of relevant experience

· Strong leadership and interpersonal skills

· Working knowledge of current IC and/or DoD classified and unclassified space systems and architecture

· Working knowledge of state-of-the-market hardware and/or software capabilities used in satellite systems

· Ability to work in a fast-paced, initiative-driven environment and to quickly prioritize and accomplish technical tasks

· Knowledge of systems engineering techniques and their application to large, DoD development programs

· Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with program management, customers, contractors, and colleagues

· Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers

· Must have an active DoD Top Secret/SCI security clearance

· Must be a US citizen

· Must be able to travel to contractor and customer facilities

Preferred Qualifications:

· PhD in engineering or related science field, with 20+ years of relevant experience

· Recent experience in space systems programs or technology

· Experience with DoD engineering policies and best practices

· An active DoD TS/SCI clearance with CI Poly current SSBI (<4 years old)

SDL Benefits:

At SDL, we take pride in and highly value our employees. SDL offers competitive salaries and a fantastic benefits package, including:

· Flexible work schedules

· Generous annual, sick, and holiday paid leave

· A variety of inexpensive-premium, high-quality health, dental, vision, and life insurance options

· Generous employer retirement contribution (Up to 14.2% of annual gross earnings)

· Discounted USU tuition of 50% for employees and dependents

· Access to USU facilities and USU staff privileges

Instructions to applicants:

Along with the online application, please attach:

1) Cover Letter

2) Resume

Once you’ve completed the initial application, you will receive an e-mail requesting you to complete a video digital interview. For more information, please visit: https://hirevue.secure.force.com/E2Candidate/?lang=en_US

Please contact us if you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of applying.

AA/EOE