Systems Engineer L1 TASD

This onsite Systems Engineer L1 role focuses on capturing and documenting requirements for the infrared signature representation of missile systems and developing infrared hard body missile threat models for use across a variety of modeling and simulation tools and frameworks. Working as part of an Integrated Threat Package (ITP) production and delivery team, you will collaborate closely with threat stakeholders, intelligence analysts, and fellow engineers to deliver high‑fidelity representations and simulations of missile system objects in support of Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Ground Test Modeling and Simulation activities.

Responsibilities

• Capture, analyze, and document requirements related to the infrared signature representation of missile systems and associated threat models.
• Develop infrared hard body (IRHB) missile threat models for use in multiple modeling and simulation tools, frameworks, and media.
• Participate in direct technical discussions and collaborations with threat stakeholders, intelligence analysts, and engineering teams to achieve the highest fidelity simulation of missile system objects.
• Work as an integral member of an Integrated Threat Package (ITP) production and delivery team to meet critical delivery schedules.
• Gain and apply experience in threat model phenomenology with a focus on infrared signatures, including hard body heating and signature representation.
• Gain and apply experience in infrared signature prediction and simulation models to support Ground Test Modeling and Simulation needs.
• Support completion of data production tasks in support of MDA Ground Test Modeling and Simulation events, following defined schedules.
• Coordinate closely with software engineers to ensure timely provision, enhancement, and maintenance of tools needed for ITP production.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on the development of new IRHB models and updates to existing missile system models.
• Contribute to the understanding of stakeholder requirements and support a rigorous Verification and Validation (V&V) process for all modeling and simulation deliverables.
• Use scripting and automation tools to streamline data production processes and improve efficiency in line with team and leadership objectives.
• Apply a solid understanding of modeling and simulation methods and processes to analyze technical data sets and produce reliable, well‑documented products.
• Adhere to established deadlines while working with minimal direct supervision in a dynamic team environment.
• Support occasional business travel, as needed, to coordinate with stakeholders and participate in mission-related activities.

• Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline with approximately 2 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree in a STEM discipline with 0–2 years of related work experience.
• Current, active, in-scope U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance at the time of application.
• Ability and willingness to travel up to 10% of the time to support business needs.
• Experience performing technical analysis of modeling and simulation data sets.
• Good understanding of modeling and simulation methods and processes.
• Familiarity with the flight characteristics, motion, and performance of missile systems, including ballistic missiles.
• Familiarity with hard body heating of objects and how it relates to infrared signature representation.
• Experience with Verification and Validation (V&V) of modeling and simulation of signature data.
• Familiarity with infrared signature concepts and the physics behind hard body heating and its effect on infrared intensities.
• Experience using scripting or automation languages such as Python, Bash, or MATLAB.
• Ability to work effectively with little to no direct supervision while contributing as a collaborative member of a production and delivery team.
• Strong result focus with the ability to produce reliable products and documentation within established deadlines.
• Self-motivated approach and ability to work well in a dynamic team environment.

• Strong background in math, physics, and/or engineering.
• Previous experience analyzing flight characteristics, motion, atmospheric dynamics, and missile performance parameters of ballistic missiles.
• Strong background in missile system engineering performance.
• Familiarity with or mastery of engineering modeling principles related to body motion, trajectory analysis, countermeasures, debris, and signature modeling.
• background in infrared (IR) signatures modeling.
• Familiarity with Optical Signatures Code (OSC).
• Experience working within Agile or SAFe Agile software development environments.
• Interest in supporting a long-term, mission-focused effort within threat systems engineering and advanced simulations development.

This role is fully onsite, located at Schriever Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, CO, with no option for remote or hybrid work. You will work within a Threat Systems Engineering environment responsible for the development and delivery of high-fidelity threat modeling products in support of the Missile Defense Agency and its Ballistic Missile Defense System. The team develops and maintains modeling and simulation capabilities, including kinematic missile modeling, infrared signature modeling, data production and analysis activities, and sustainment of the entire software baseline. Work is collaborative and mission-driven, with close coordination among engineers, software developers, intelligence analysts, and other stakeholders. The schedule follows standard onsite hours, with occasional travel up to 10% for business needs. The environment is highly technical, emphasizing precision, rigorous Verification and Validation processes, and continuous improvement of modeling tools and automation to support long-term, high-impact defense simulation efforts.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Colorado Springs, CO.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $55.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Colorado Springs,CO.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 17, 2026.

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If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $40 - $55