Technical Expert/Space Systems Engineer

SABG is seeking a Technical Expert/Space Systems Engineer to provide advanced technical expertise in support of the Missile Warning and Tracking (MWT) Operations Support II program. This role supports the full lifecycle of the Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS) missile warning enterprise, including satellite platforms, ground stations, command-and-control (C2) systems, communications networks, relay sites, and user interfaces. You will advise Mission Delta 4, evaluate modernization initiatives, support trial-phase and operational acceptance activities, and ensure the weapon system performs to operational standards. Your work directly contributes to national defense by ensuring missile warning systems remain reliable, survivable, accurate, and ready to support global operations.

Travel: OCONUS Travel: 1-2 trips per year anticipated; CONUS Travel: 3-4 trips per year anticipated (including 2-3 trips to Beale AFB and Cape Cod SFS for instructor development courses)

JOB TITLE: Technical Expert/Space Systems Engineer

CLEARANCE: Top Secret/SCI

LOCATION: Buckley SFB, CO; Beale AFB, CA (Backup: Schriever SFB, CO) Onsite with limited telework (COR-approved)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

• Provide systems engineering expertise for SBIRS enterprise components, including the SBIRS satellite constellation, satellite command-and-control systems, relay ground stations, survivable and non-survivable communications systems, and warfighter user interfaces that enable global missile warning operations.
• Support planning, integration, evaluation, execution, sustainment, and modernization activities across the SBIRS enterprise to maintain operational readiness and mission performance.
• Coordinate with Mission Delta 4, Space Operations Command (SpOC), Space Systems Command (SSC), Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM), USSPACECOM, USSTRATCOM, and other mission partners regarding system engineering issues, modernization efforts, and technical assessments.
• Support Government-led trial-phase assessments and operational acceptance events for SBIRS weapon systems, ensuring upgrades meet mission requirements and comply with Space Force standards.
• Monitor engineering and programmatic risks, recommend mitigations, and provide technical guidance to ensure programs remain on schedule and aligned with operational needs.
• Develop system requirements, interface control inputs, engineering documentation, and verification approaches for mission systems and supporting ground architectures.
• Conduct system-level analyses to identify technical issues, evaluate architectural trade-offs, recommend engineering solutions, and ensure decisions support long-term sustainment and modernization.
• Support multi-agency and multi-disciplinary engineering efforts to maintain interoperability across related missile warning and tracking systems, including ties to OPIR mission partners.
• Apply engineering methodologies including digital engineering, Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), and Agile development concepts to streamline capability delivery and improve technical collaboration.
• Evaluate infrastructure readiness, communication pathways, facility dependencies, and integration risks to support weapon system availability, resiliency, and modernization planning.
• Contribute to modernization roadmaps for future OPIR capabilities, such as Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next-Gen OPIR) and emerging Space Force missile warning architectures.

SUPERVISION: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.

• Minimum 6 years of experience supporting the SBIRS enterprise or similar satellite/ground command-and-control, payload, or infrared remote sensing systems.

• Minimum 3 years of systems engineering experience supporting DoD, Space Force, or other national security space programs.

• Experience supporting system integration, test, evaluation, or operational acceptance activities for missile warning or similar space systems.

• Familiarity with DoD and U.S. Space Force processes related to operations, system procurement, sustainment, and system readiness.

• Active Top Secret/SCI clearance at time of application.

• This position requires unescorted access to SCIFs and restricted areas at Buckley SFB (Buildings 447, 442, 430, Restricted Area) and Beale AFB (Restricted Area). Access will be granted in accordance with DD Form 254 requirements.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master's degree in Engineering, Systems Architecture, Systems Management, or related discipline.

• Prior experience supporting a SBIRS operational unit, SBIRS Program Office, or other missile warning enterprise.

• Systems Engineering certifications (e.g., INCOSE CSEP, DAWIA Engineering certifications).

• Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and digital engineering environments.

• Experience supporting OPIR-related programs such as Next-Gen OPIR or legacy systems such as the Defense Support Program (DSP).

COMPUTER SKILLS TOOLS/TECHNOLOGIES

• Skills in operating a personal computer and standard office equipment
• Must have proficiency in a variety of computer software applications in word processing, spreadsheets, and database (MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• SBIRS ground, mission processing, and C2 systems
• DoD and Space Force test and evaluation platforms
• Digital engineering and MBSE tools

COMPETENCIES: To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

• Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems promptly; gathers and analyzes information skillfully; develops alternative solutions; works well in group problem-solving situations; and uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics
• Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; edits work for spelling and grammar; varies writing style to meet needs; presents numerical data effectively; and able to read and interpret written information
• Diversity – Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences, and promotes a harassment-free environment
• Ethics - Treats people with respect; keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and ethically; and upholds organizational values
• Planning/Organizing - Prioritize and plans work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for additional resources; sets goals and objectives; organizes or schedules other people and their tasks if needed; and develops realistic action plans
• Professionalism - Tactfully approaches others; reacts well under pressure; treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; accepts responsibility for own actions; follows through on commitments

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the public.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

REASONING ABILITY: Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to question activities and issues in all functional areas and make sound business decisions based on that data.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, and hear. The employee is regularly required to write and type on a computer. The employee is frequently required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand; climb, or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Job duties are performed in a manufacturing/office environment utilizing standard office equipment such as a computer, photocopier, and telephone. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

• Access to Government-furnished workspace, computer systems, telecommunications, and office equipment

• Work performed in secure facilities requiring adherence to OPSEC, CUI handling, and classified information protection protocols

• Professional office environment within operational military installations

• Work conducted in SCIFs with access to classified technical systems and documentation

• Occasional work in operational facilities and control centers

• Participation in technical meetings, working groups, and program reviews

FOR OUR SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS: SABG values the service Veterans and their family members have given to our country and we support the hiring of returning Service Members and military spouses. If you are a Veteran or wounded warrior and would like assistance with the employment process at SABG, please contact our Recruiting team at

FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: If you are a person with a disability or a disabled Veteran and are applying for a job with SABG, we would like to ensure your application process goes as smoothly as possible. If because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process please contact our Recruiting team at and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION: Once you complete all the steps we are notified of your completed application, and we will review. For individuals who meet the requirements of the position, we will contact you and arrange next steps in the interview process.

SABG is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled