Ground Systems of System Engineer SME

About the Role

We are seeking a highly capable and collaborative Ground – System of Systems Engineer – SME to support the Golden Dome initiative’s Common Ground Team, a key component of the program focused on ensuring seamless integration and operation of ground systems for space-based assets. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in space and ground systems to design, integrate, and optimize common ground architecture supporting Golden Dome’s mission-critical objectives. As a vital member of the team, you will ensure the interoperability and reliability of ground systems to achieve mission goals efficiently and securely.

Golden Dome is a national-level, whole-of-nation initiative in which you will play a critical role in advancing next-generation homeland defense capabilities. This opportunity is designed for those seeking a fast-paced position focused on developing innovative software for the Space-Based Interceptor mission.

Responsibilities

• Spacecraft Operations & Commanding: Hands-on experience flying, operating, and commanding on-orbit spacecraft, including real-time mission operations and command execution.
• TT&C & Ground-to-Space Communications: Strong understanding of telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C), uplink/downlink operations, ground stations, RF communications, and end-to-end command and telemetry paths.
• Orbital & Constellation Operations: Knowledge of orbital mechanics, ephemeris, orbit determination, station keeping, maneuver execution, collision avoidance (COLA), contact planning, and constellation operations.
• Command & Telemetry Architecture: Experience with spacecraft command databases/dictionaries, command sequences, telemetry definitions, CCSDS protocols, packetization/framing, and command validation and verification.
• Ground Systems & Mission Operations: Experience with mission/satellite operations centers, ground-system architectures, antenna networks, mission applications, and interfaces between ground software, networks, RF systems, and spacecraft.
• Systems Integration, Test & V&V: Experience integrating and testing spacecraft and ground systems using simulators, SIL/HIL environments, flatsats, or operational test environments, including requirements verification and test-result analysis.

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field. Master’s degree preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in systems engineering for space and ground assets, with emphasis on ground systems integration.

Technical Requirements

• In-depth knowledge of ground station operations, telemetry, tracking, command systems, and communication architectures.
• Proficiency in engineering tools such as STK, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar modeling platforms.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on large-scale system optimization.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Security Clearance

Must have an Active Top-Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility.

Qualifications (Desired)

• Experience working on DoD programs, such as Golden Dome or similar national security-focused initiatives.
• Familiarity with industry standards for ground and space systems (e.g., CCSDS, MIL-STD protocols).
• Certifications like Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), Network+, or Security+.
• Hands-on experience with advanced networking technologies, virtualization, and cloud-based ground operations platforms.