Senior Systems Engineer - Aerostat IPT Lead

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Systems Engineer to serve as the Aerostat Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead for the Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) system. The Senior Systems Engineer will be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of aerostat development, integration, and verification from initial concept development through operational deployment on the 420K cubic foot strategic aerostat platform. The ideal candidate will work closely with the U.S. Army, foreign military clients, aerostat partners, and internal engineering teams to ensure successful integration of aerostat systems with ISR payloads for military ground-based operations.

Lead and supervise IPT staff to ensure effective engagement with aerostat partner organizations and other ASRR partner organizations
• Coordinate cross-functional teams of hardware engineers, software engineers, and military experts to ensure aerostat systems meet mission-specific requirements
• Manage team resources, assignments, and deliverables to support aerostat development objectives
• Foster collaborative working relationships across multiple partner organizations and stakeholder groups

• Manage the complete lifecycle of aerostat development, integration, and verification from initial concept development through operational deployment
• Oversee aerostat system design, integration, and testing activities including envelope systems, tether operations, ground handling equipment, and payload integration
• Ensure aerostat systems are fully integrated with ground platforms and ISR mission requirements
• Coordinate aerostat integration with sensors (EO/IR, radar), communication systems, and data processing technologies

• Monitor aerostat development, integration, and test schedules to ensure program milestones are met
• Identify, assess, and track technical and programmatic risks associated with aerostat development and integration
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and coordinate implementation across IPT teams
• Raise significant issues and risks to the Chief Engineer for resolution and program-level decision making

• Contribute to the creation of aerostat-specific system specifications, architecture, and requirements documentation
• Ensure aerostat solutions meet operational needs and integrate effectively with overall ASRR system architecture
• Support system-level testing and verification efforts for aerostat technologies, ensuring systems operate effectively in operational environments
• Coordinate integration activities between aerostat systems and other ASRR subsystems

• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to aerostat systems integration and performance
• Lead technical investigations and coordinate solutions across multiple engineering disciplines
• Provide technical guidance to IPT team members on aerostat-specific challenges and solutions
• Coordinate with partner organizations to resolve technical interface issues

• Serve as primary point of contact for aerostat partner organizations on technical and programmatic matters
• Coordinate technical activities and deliverables across multiple ASRR partner organizations
• Interface with U.S. Army personnel and foreign military clients on aerostat-related technical matters
• Facilitate technical exchanges and collaboration between partner organizations

• Create and maintain detailed aerostat system documentation, including integration procedures, test plans, test results, and operational manuals
• Ensure all aerostat system components comply with military standards (MIL-STD, MIL-PRF) and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) regulations
• Support the development and delivery of training materials for military personnel operating aerostat systems
• Maintain technical documentation supporting aerostat certification and operational approval processes

• Provide technical support during aerostat deployment, fielding, and operational use
• Support military personnel in understanding and effectively using aerostat technologies
• Coordinate field support activities across IPT team members and partner organizations
• Ensure successful transition from development to operational deployment

• Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Information Systems, or related STEM field

• Minimum 10 years of experience in applied systems engineering methodology with focus on complex system integration
• Experience with ISR technologies such as EO/IR, radar, SIGINT, or similar sensor systems
• Demonstrated experience in team leadership and cross-functional project management
• Experience managing technical development programs from concept through deployment

• Hands-on experience with integration and testing of complex systems on military platforms (ground, air, or naval)
• Solid understanding of communication systems and data processing technologies
• Experience with aerostat or airborne platform systems preferred
• Advanced computer skills and ability to quickly learn new engineering software tools

• Proven ability to lead and supervise technical teams in complex engineering environments
• Experience coordinating activities across multiple organizations and stakeholder groups
• Strong project management skills with ability to manage schedules, resources, and deliverables
• Experience escalating technical issues and coordinating with senior leadership

• Applied experience in systems engineering lifecycle management tools such as Innoslate MBSE, Cameo Magic Draw, DOORS Next, or equivalent
• Experience with project management tools and risk management processes
• Familiarity with configuration management and technical documentation systems

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with ability to interface with military personnel, foreign clients, and cross-functional engineering teams
• Demonstrated ability to facilitate technical discussions and achieve consensus among diverse stakeholders
• Experience presenting technical information to both technical and management audiences

• Strong analytical skills and ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues in both lab and operational settings
• Familiarity with military platforms, systems, and operational environments, particularly related to ISR missions
• Ability to travel to military installations and overseas locations as required to support the project

• Must be eligible for U.S. government security clearance (Secret minimum) or possess current clearance
• Prior experience working with Foreign Military Sales (FMS) contracts and international military operations highly desirable
• Ability to work effectively in dynamic, fast paced, and multinational environment
• Experience with partner organization coordination and multi-contractor program management preferred

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.