Ground Systems of System Engineer SME

We are seeking a highly capable and collaborative Ground – System of Systems Engineer – SME to support the Golden Dome initiative’s Common Ground Team, a key component of the program focused on ensuring seamless integration and operation of ground systems for space-based assets. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in space and ground systems to design, integrate, and optimize common ground architecture supporting Golden Dome’s mission-critical objectives. As a vital member of the team, you will ensure the interoperability and reliability of ground systems to achieve mission goals efficiently and securely.

Contract Overview:

Golden Dome is a national-level, whole-of-nation initiative in which you will play a critical role in advancing next-generation homeland defense capabilities. If you are seeking a fast-paced position focused on developing innovative software for the Space-Based Interceptor mission, this opportunity is designed for you.

Responsibilities:

As a Ground Systems Engineer for the Common Ground Team, your responsibilities will include:

Spacecraft Operations & Commanding:

• Hands-on experience flying, operating, and commanding on-orbit spacecraft, including real-time mission operations and command execution.

TT&C & Ground-to-Space Communications:

• Strong understanding of telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C), uplink/downlink operations, ground stations, RF communications, and end-to-end command and telemetry paths.

Orbital & Constellation Operations:

• Knowledge of orbital mechanics, ephemeris, orbit determination, station keeping, maneuver execution, collision avoidance (COLA), contact planning, and constellation operations.

Command & Telemetry Architecture:

• Experience with spacecraft command databases/dictionaries, command sequences, telemetry definitions, CCSDS protocols, packetization/framing, and command validation and verification.

Ground Systems & Mission Operations:

• Experience with mission/satellite operations centers, ground-system architectures, antenna networks, mission applications, and interfaces between ground software, networks, RF systems, and spacecraft.

Systems Integration, Test & V&V:

• Experience integrating and testing spacecraft and ground systems using simulators, SIL/HIL environments, flatsats, or operational test environments, including requirements verification and test-result analysis.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field. Master’s degree preferred with 15 years experience.

Technical Requirements:

• 15+ years of experience in systems engineering for space and ground assets, with emphasis on ground systems integration.
• In-depth knowledge of ground station operations, telemetry, tracking, command systems, and communication architectures.
• Proficiency in engineering tools such as STK, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar modeling platforms.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on large-scale system optimization.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

Required Security Clearance:

• Must have an Active Top-Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience working on DoD programs, such as Golden Dome or similar national security-focused initiatives.
• Familiarity with industry standards for ground and space systems (e.g., CCSDS, MIL-STD protocols).
• Certifications like Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), Network+, or Security+.
• Hands-on experience with advanced networking technologies, virtualization, and cloud-based ground operations platforms.

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