Experienced Multidisciplinary Systems Engineer

Job ID: 5600
Date Posted: November 26, 2025

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an experienced Multidisciplinary Systems Engineer to develop, integrate, and test satellite ground system solutions. The successful candidate will play a key role in defining ground system architectures, coordinating interdisciplinary engineering efforts, managing requirements, risks, interfaces, and configurations, and ensuring cohesive technical execution across multiple teams. This position is ideal for candidates with deep systems engineering expertise, strong leadership and communication skills, and a proven ability to guide multi-disciplinary teams, resolve cross-cutting technical challenges, and drive successful program outcomes in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment.

The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation's defense capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Supports Program Manager and Lead Systems Engineer in technical management of projects through tracking, risks, requirements, interfaces, configurations, and related tasks
• Direct support of the government customer that involves daily interaction and a high-level of professionalism.
• Has technical responsibility for planning and conducting technical projects or phases of projects
• Designs and coordinates complex systems that involve interdisciplinary engineering such as software, hardware, thermal, structural, optical, and electrical
• Defines and develops interfaces between development teams
• Ensures common understanding between teams throughout development and is responsible for coordinating the work of many Engineers, each of whom is an expert in one part of a system
• Gathers all the necessary information about what is needed in a system, selects several possible ways of designing the system, and uses systems analysis to break down the possible solutions into smaller parts
• Creates and maintains programmatic and technical documentation to ensure efficient planning and execution
• Mitigates risks while ensuring requirements are satisfied and verified
• Coordinates system development tasks to include design, integration, and formal testing
• Develops mission CONOPS, maneuvers, and uses
• Advises Program Manager on technical requirements on a program
• Provides technical oversight of contractor requirements and development efforts
• Provides input to overall design, test, and systems engineering processes
• Assesses hardware and software designs for compliance with customer mission needs

• Must be a US citizen and have an active DoD Top Secret Security Clearance and be SAP eligible
• BS degree in a related technical field (e.g., aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related science with coursework in space engineering) and 10-15 years of relevant experience, a MS degree in a related field and 8-13 years of relevant experience, or a PhD in a related field and 4-9 years of relevant experience
• Proficiency in providing technical oversight and leadership as the Lead Systems Engineer on small- to medium-sized programs
• Ability to mentor junior Engineers and foster collaboration across cross-functional teams, including software, hardware, test engineering, and science
• Proficiency in managing risks, interfaces, and configurations on medium- to large-complexity programs
• Experience developing and creating system documentation such as specifications, ICDs, and system architecture documents
• Strong knowledge of trade studies and design analysis techniques
• Experience establishing costs and schedules for engineering activities
• Understanding of Mission Assurance and Project Management roles and responsibilities
• Ability to present complex technical concepts clearly and succinctly, both verbally and in writing
• Proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers, stakeholders, and interdisciplinary teams
• Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills with attention to detail while maintaining a system-level perspective
• Proven organization and planning skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Must be able to travel occasionally

• Experience with Agile methodologies to define requirements and develop systems
• Experience with national security and Air Force space and ground systems
• Experience with Command, Control, Battle Management, and Communications (C2BMC)
• Experience with mission planning for government programs
• Knowledge of satellite communication protocols and standards
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices related to satellite operations
• Experience with satellite ground station equipment, including antennas and RF systems
• Familiarity with cloud computing platforms and their integration with ground systems

• $116,000 - $146,000
  • Salary commensurate based on education and experience

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.

SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 14 days. However, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.