Systems Engineer (TS/SCI)

About the role

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Systems Engineer to join our USAF customer program in San Diego, California. The Systems Engineer will be supporting an Air Force AI integrated weapon system capability development efforts by helping maintain system architecture models in Cameo. Work Environment: On‑site role in San Diego, CA. Application Period: Opens on 09/24/2026 and will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.

Responsibilities

• Apply systems engineering principles and best practices across the full lifecycle of a technical program, from concept to disposal.
• Develop, manage, and maintain system architecture models using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies (e.g., SysML, UPDM, DoDAF).
• Lead the definition, decomposition, and management of system requirements, ensuring traceability and alignment with program objectives and stakeholder needs.
• Conduct trade studies, analyses of alternatives, and risk assessments to inform key technical decisions and mitigate program risks.
• Define and manage system interfaces, ensuring interoperability and integration between system components.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including software, hardware, and test engineers, to ensure a cohesive and integrated system design.
• Support system integration, verification, and validation activities to ensure the system meets all requirements and is fit for purpose.
• Prepare and present technical documentation, system models, and briefings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Work with program management to ensure technical solutions are developed on schedule and within budget.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and contribute to the continuous enhancement of the systems engineering discipline within the program.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• 5+ years of experience in systems engineering and architecture for major system acquisitions.
• Strong experience with Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
• Hands‑on experience with Cameo Systems Architect and/or Sparx Enterprise Architect.
• Experience with requirements management tools such as DOORS or JAMA.
• Experience supporting requirements development, verification, compliance, and architectural trade studies.
• Ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and complex organizational environments.
• Must possess an in‑scope T5 background investigation adjudicated for SCI eligibility and enrolled in Continuous Evaluation (if applicable).
• Must be willing to be nominated for access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAP).
• Must be willing to consent to a polygraph examination.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 401k
• 20 days of paid time off
• 11 federal holidays
• Sick leave

Pay

Pay Band: $165,000 - $225,000 (based on years of relevant experience)