Software Systems Engineer

About the role

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter.

The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity.

The Intelligence Programs Group (IPG), part of SPA’s Space and Intelligence Division, is a specialized provider of systems engineering and trusted advisory services to the Space and National Intelligence community. We utilize mission-proven, data-driven advisory tools and capabilities.

Responsibilities

SPA is looking for a Software Systems Engineer with Space Domain experience to support a very dynamic and innovative space program office in Chantilly, VA. This position supports the design, development, integration, test, deployment, and sustainment of software systems for advanced space vehicle programs.

This position serves as a key technical contributor across the system acquisition lifecycle, ensuring software solutions meet mission requirements, interface seamlessly with flight and ground systems, and comply with programmatic, security, safety, and quality standards.

This position collaborates with software developers, systems engineers, mission operations personnel, cybersecurity specialists, and program leadership to deliver reliable, mission-critical capabilities that support spacecraft operations and mission success.

Qualifications

• US Citizenship with TS/SCI + Poly clearance at date of application
• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical discipline
• 9+ years of experience supporting software engineering, systems engineering, or software integration activities
• Experience with the systems engineering lifecycle, including requirements development, design, integration, test, verification, and validation
• Knowledge of software development methodologies including Agile, DevSecOps, and traditional waterfall approaches
• Experience supporting complex integrated systems in aerospace, defense, intelligence, or space environments
• Ability to report to designated work location in Chantilly, VA on a full-time basis

Desired qualifications include experience supporting spacecraft, satellite, launch vehicle, or ground control systems, knowledge of flight software architectures and command-and-control systems, and experience with software integration laboratories, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and mission simulations.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $150,000 - $195,000 per year.

Benefits

SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide both paid and unpaid time away from work.