Software Systems Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a highly skilled and innovative Software Systems Engineer to join our team and lead critical aspects of system design, integration, and validation. This role requires a strong technical foundation, exceptional problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage complex requirements while interfacing with customers and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Work autonomously, take ownership of tasks, and drive solutions with minimal oversight.
• Demonstrate expertise in testing complex algorithms and graphical user interfaces (GUIs), including formal requirements validation, usability testing, and defect identification.
• Ensure system-level architecture and interfaces are understood, troubleshoot across subsystems, and ensure seamless integration.
• Guide engineering teams and ensure alignment with program objectives.
• Interpret formal and informal requirements, write detailed specifications, and manage change requests.
• Document defects, create clear and actionable reports, and maintain traceability of issues through resolution.
• Communicate errors, risks, and recommendations to engineering teams and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Eligible to obtain and hold a Top Secret clearance.
• Expertise in testing complex algorithms and GUIs, including formal requirements validation, usability testing, and defect identification.
• Strong understanding of system-level architecture and interfaces, capable of troubleshooting across subsystems and ensuring seamless integration.
• Hands-on experience with Agile development methodologies and continuous integration/continuous delivery pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, Git).
• Ability to clearly communicate errors, risks, and recommendations to engineering teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to interpret formal and informal requirements, write detailed specifications, and manage change requests.
• Capable of guiding engineering teams and ensuring alignment with program objectives.
• Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field.

Qualifications

• Eligible to obtain and hold a Top Secret clearance.
• BS degree or higher in Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field.
• Experience of BS+2 years, OR MS+0 years for Engineer 1.
• Experience of BS+5 years, MS+3 years, or PhD+0 years for Staff Engineer.
• Experience of BS+7 years, MS+5 years, or PhD+3 years for Senior Engineer.

Skills

• Experience with classified systems or secure environments.
• Familiarity with Agile development and DevSecOps practices.
• Knowledge of model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies.
• Familiarity with Squish/Jenkins/GIT (or a willingness to learn).
• Basic knowledge and experience with C++/Python.
• Involvement with systems integration, test, and performance verification.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits, programs, and perks:

• Health & Wellness Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Life and Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Vision Reimbursement
• Flexible Scheduling
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Parental and Bereavement Leave

Pay

The salary range for this role depends on the candidate’s level of experience:

• Engineer 1: $95,000 - $115,000
• Engineer 2: $115,000 - $140,000
• Staff Engineer: $135,000 - $165,000
• Sr. Engineer: $155,000 - $185,000

Other Considerations

Areté is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination, and we believe every person has the right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and equal consideration. Areté is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.