Sr. Systems Engineer - Space

Location: Northern Virginia

Type: Full-Time

Security Clearance: DoD Top Secret

Responsibilities

Provides systems engineering and analytical support to a senior OSD office in the area of space programs.  Advises program system engineering working-level integrated product teams (WIPTs) as they develop Systems Engineering Plans (SEPs).  Assesses and coordinates OSD approval of program SEPs.  Assesses test results, technical risk, readiness to execute test strategy, and programmatic issues.  Prepares position papers for senior-level OSD acquisition decision makers.  Develops technical positions and policy recommendations regarding system engineering processes, resource/infrastructure support, and workforce education.  Represents office to other OSD offices and Service acquisition managers.  

General Requirements

Experience with space acquisition programs.  Experience with or understanding of DoD acquisition, and SE processes at OSD or Service headquarters level.  Must be able to quickly draft OSD-level issue papers, staff summaries, memoranda, and briefings, translating program technical issues into executive-level terms for senior executive decision makers and government staff assistants.  Working knowledge of the operating practices and relationships among OSD, Joint Chiefs of Staff, Service headquarters, and program offices.  Knowledgeable of the functions and practices of the OSD and its responsibility for oversight of major defense acquisition programs. Hands-on DoD acquisition experience; experience as a project manager, analyst, test manager, or technical director highly desired.  Understanding of policy and process development.  Experience with the joint requirements-generation process, the SE WIPT process, SEPs, and acquisition program documentation.  Pentagon experience preferred.

Educational Requirements

Master of Science degree in engineering or a related engineering discipline, plus 10 years of experience.  Candidates with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or a related engineering discipline and 14 years of experience also will be considered.