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System Engineer (SDA) - Enterprise

Company Overview

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

 

QinetiQ US’s dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

 

Why Join QinetiQ US?

 

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems.  In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

Position Overview

Join us in our fast-paced support to the Space Development Agency (SDA). Recognized as the Department of Defense's constructive disruptor for space acquisition, SDA delivers space-based capabilities to the joint warfighter to support terrestrial missions through development, fielding, and operation of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. SDA capitalizes on a unique business model that values speed and lowers costs by harnessing commercial development to achieve a proliferated architecture and enhance resilience.  QinetiQ has an immediate opening for a systems engineer to support SDA’s enterprise operations.  The candidate will provide technical expertise to government program managers across multiple satellite vendor designs.  The candidate will review designs, test procedures and provide feedback and recommendations to ensure individual satellites will meet SDA’s architecture needs. The candidate will use their experience in satellite and ground operations to ensure the system will meet requirements.  The SDA will incorporate their knowledge to ensure multiple vendor’s software and hardware designs will be successfully integrated through a common ground operations control station.  Duties include:

Responsibilities

  • Provide technical advice/input that lays the strategic foundation for critical, national capability and future initiatives in support of the Proliferated Space Warfighter Architecture
  • Coordinate the development of satellite system requirements; develop enterprise, system, functional, performance, and interface requirements; and consider the impact of the satellites’ requirements to the ground system, including ground entry point acquisitions, operations center set up and maintenance, and ground software solutions
  • Provide systems engineering guidance in the development of test and evaluation plans, system verification plans, and other systems engineering processes and documents
  • Oversee integration and test of satellites into the SDA’s ground system network design and with the other satellite vendors to create a mesh network
  • Assess technical maturity and risk of necessary changes and updates to ground systems to enable overall architecture capabilities
  • Develop Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for new capabilities and coordinate them across the affected organizations

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in science, technology, engineering or mathematics
  • Minimum of 10+ years experience with satellite and ground systems
  • Technical and analytic understanding of satellite and ground system interaction
  • Experience in systems engineering
  • Ability to work in fast paced environment with excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • TS Clearance with SCI Eligibility; #qinetiqclearedjob

Preferred Qualifications

  • Masters degree in STEM (science, technical, engineering, math) or related discipline
  • Experience DoD and or IC customers
  • Active TS/SCI clearance

Company EEO Statement

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

 

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

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CEO of QinetiQ US
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Shawn Purvis
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Average salary estimate

$135000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$120000K
$150000K

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What You Should Know About System Engineer (SDA) - Enterprise, QinetiQ US

The System Engineer (SDA) position at QinetiQ US in Chantilly is an exciting opportunity where you'll become part of a dynamic team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology in the realm of defense and security. At QinetiQ US, we pride ourselves on being innovators in developing robotic and autonomous platforms along with advanced satellite systems. In this role, you'll be collaborating closely with the Space Development Agency (SDA) to provide technical expertise and strategic insights into the operational framework for satellite systems. Your experience will be invaluable as you assess satellite and ground operations, ensuring they align with SDA’s architecture needs. You'll be responsible for coordinating the development of requirements, guiding the design of test and evaluation plans, and ensuring a seamless integration of different satellite systems into a unified ground network. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, we encourage you to voice your ideas and help shape the future of space acquisition. Working at QinetiQ US means joining a culture that values diversity and creates an environment where you can truly be yourself. If you're ready to tackle challenging tasks with a team that’s passionate about making a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for System Engineer (SDA) - Enterprise Role at QinetiQ US
What are the main responsibilities of a System Engineer (SDA) at QinetiQ US?

As a System Engineer (SDA) at QinetiQ US, your main responsibilities include providing technical expertise in satellite systems to government program managers, developing enterprise and functional requirements, and guiding the design and integration processes of satellite operations. You'll also be involved in developing test plans and ensuring the operational capabilities of the Proliferated Space Warfighter Architecture meet essential requirements.

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What qualifications are necessary for the System Engineer (SDA) role at QinetiQ US?

To qualify for the System Engineer (SDA) position at QinetiQ US, you need a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, at least 10 years of experience with satellite and ground systems, and systems engineering knowledge. A TS Clearance with SCI Eligibility is also required, along with strong communication skills to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

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How does the System Engineer (SDA) contribute to the mission of QinetiQ US?

The System Engineer (SDA) plays a crucial role at QinetiQ US by ensuring that satellite designs and operations align with the needs of the SDA. By providing technical advice and overseeing integration processes, you contribute to the overarching goal of enhancing national security through advanced satellite capabilities. Your work directly impacts the effectiveness of the Proliferated Space Warfighter Architecture.

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What type of work environment can a System Engineer (SDA) expect at QinetiQ US?

A System Engineer (SDA) at QinetiQ US can expect a collaborative and innovative work environment filled with diverse perspectives. The company values employee well-being and flexibility, allowing for a healthy work-life balance while giving you the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that contribute to global security.

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What are the preferred qualifications for a System Engineer (SDA) at QinetiQ US?

Preferred qualifications for the System Engineer (SDA) position at QinetiQ US include a Master's degree in a STEM field, experience with Department of Defense and Intelligence Community customers, and an active TS/SCI clearance. These qualifications can provide additional insights and skills that will enhance the capabilities of our team.

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Common Interview Questions for System Engineer (SDA) - Enterprise
What experience do you have with satellite systems and ground operations as a System Engineer?

In answering this question, focus on specific projects where you've played a pivotal role in satellite systems design or ground operations. Highlight the challenges you faced, the solutions you developed, and how your contributions led to successful outcomes.

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Can you explain the importance of requirements development for satellite systems?

When responding, emphasize that requirements development is crucial as it ensures that satellite and ground operations meet both performance and functional criteria. Detail your experience in gathering inputs from stakeholders and translating them into technical requirements for project success.

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Describe how you would handle integration challenges with multiple satellite vendors.

Share a relevant example where you successfully navigated integration challenges. Discuss your approach to collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, and how you ensured all components fit into a cohesive system.

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What methodologies do you employ for conducting systems engineering processes?

Explain your familiarity with established systems engineering methodologies such as V-Model or Agile. Discuss how you apply these methodologies to ensure thorough testing, validation, and verification of satellite systems throughout a project's lifecycle.

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How do you assess and manage technical risks in satellite projects?

Illustrate your process for identifying, assessing, and mitigating technical risks. Provide examples of risk management strategies you’ve implemented in past projects, emphasizing your proactive approach to addressing potential challenges.

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What tools or software have you used for systems engineering and satellite analysis?

Mention specific tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, or industry-standard modeling tools you’ve utilized in your past roles. Describe how these tools have aided your work in satellite analysis and systems engineering tasks.

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How do you ensure effective communication among team members and stakeholders?

Discuss your strategies for fostering clear communication, such as regular updates, collaborative tools, and structured meetings. Emphasize the importance of feedback loops to ensure all voices are heard within the team.

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What do you see as the future of satellite technology and operations?

Provide your insights into emerging trends such as satellite constellations, advancements in AI/ML applications, and the growing importance of cybersecurity in satellite operations. Demonstrating your forward-thinking mindset can illustrate your passion for the field.

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Explain a time when you had to adapt quickly to a change in project requirements.

Provide a concrete example where changes were implemented, detailing how you adapted your approach and the impact those changes had on the project's success. This showcases your flexibility and resilience.

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How do you maintain your knowledge of the latest trends in satellite technology?

Discuss your commitment to continuous learning, whether through professional development courses, attending industry conferences, or reading relevant publications. Highlight specific examples that demonstrate your proactive approach to staying informed.

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DATE POSTED
April 17, 2025

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