Senior Systems Engineer

About the role

Galapagos Federal Systems LLC is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Engineer to support the United States Space Force (USSF) and its mission‑critical space operations. The position supports the Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI) Integrated Program Office (IPO) and Space Systems Command’s System Delta 81, contributing to the development, acquisition, integration, and sustainment of advanced test and training capabilities that enhance USSF readiness and operational effectiveness. The ideal candidate combines systems engineering expertise, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills to deliver results in a fast‑paced DoD environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct feasibility studies and concept exploration to evaluate system and capability solutions.
• Perform Design Reference Mission (DRM) engineering and supporting system analysis.
• Develop and refine Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) to support mission and operational requirements.
• Develop and manage system requirements, Interface Control Documents (ICDs), verification plans, system validation activities, and operational support requirements.
• Perform change management and technical analysis to assess impacts to system requirements, interfaces, and program objectives.
• Assess, align, and integrate Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) activities with technical efforts supporting the Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI).
• Support systems engineering activities throughout Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E), integration, fielding, and sustainment.
• Collaborate with government, engineering, acquisition, and program stakeholders to support successful system and capability delivery.

Requirements

• Active DoD Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• 10+ years of relevant DoD experience supporting systems engineering, RDT&E, acquisition, or related technical programs.
• Experience supporting System Program Offices (SPOs), Program Management Offices (PMOs), or system and capability delivery to SPOs/PMOs.
• Demonstrated experience with RDT&E and test and training materiel systems.
• Experience with deployment, integration, operation, and sustainment of space test and training materiel systems.
• Strong knowledge and practical application of Systems Engineering (SE) principles and processes supporting system RDT&E, integration, and fielding.
• Proficiency with Cameo Systems Modeler and Systems Modeling Language (SysML).
• Working knowledge of the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS) and DoD Architecture Framework (DoDAF) processes and artifacts.
• Experience across relevant space technology disciplines (e.g., space system architectures, satellite and ground segment design, EO/IR and RF sensors, astrodynamics, propulsion, GNC, space data communications, or Space Battle Management and Control).
• Ability to work full‑time on‑site and travel up to 25% as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Systems Engineering or a related engineering field (Mechanical, Electrical, Software, etc.).
• Master’s degree (MS/ME/MA) in Systems Engineering or a related field is preferred.
• Degrees in other STEM fields may be considered with substantial, relevant professional experience.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• 401(k) PTO.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Military Differential.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Paid federal holidays.

Pay

USD $185,000.00 – $195,000.00 per year.

Security Clearance

Must be a U.S. citizen. A high‑level Department of Defense active security clearance is required (Top Secret with SCI eligibility). Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to government information.

Physical Requirements

The work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods, typing, and reading from a computer screen. The candidate must have sufficient mobility—including bending, reaching, and kneeling—to complete daily duties efficiently and may need to lift up to thirty pounds as necessary.

Company Summary

Headquartered in Hawaii, Galapagos Federal Systems, LLC is an SBA‑Certified NHO‑owned 8(a) Small Business specializing in global information technology solutions. The company delivers professional services in IT design & installation, cybersecurity engineering & support, application integration & development, software & hardware engineering, network & systems management, information systems security, and business management services. With over 30 years of experience providing IT services to federal and commercial markets worldwide, Galapagos Federal Systems leverages innovative expertise to develop a wide range of technological solutions.