Experienced Multidisciplinary Systems Engineer

Job ID: 5599
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 senior 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:

• Leads system-level design efforts and functions as Project/Lead Engineer for major programs, directing and evaluating engineering activities across disciplines
• Provides direct support to the government customer that involves daily interaction and a high level of professionalism
• Coordinates and integrates interdisciplinary engineering efforts across software, hardware, thermal, structural, optical, electrical, and related domains
• Defines, develops, and manages interfaces between development teams to ensure consistent understanding, alignment, and technical integrity throughout development
• Gathers system-level requirements, evaluates design alternatives, performs systems analysis, and decomposes solutions into actionable engineering tasks
• Manages system development tasks including design, integration, verification, and formal testing
• Creates, maintains, and leads documentation, processes, and technical baselines required for program planning, execution, and reviews
• Provides technical recommendations, corrections, and guidance on engineering approaches and analyses
• Reviews relevant literature, patents, and current practices to inform system development and maintain technical rigor
• Advises Program Managers on technical requirements, system impacts, and risks; serves as a technical interface with customers as needed
• Assists Program Managers in leading development teams, tracking risks, requirements, interfaces, configurations, and project performance
• Coordinates engineering and technical support staff to ensure deliverables meet requirements, comply with organizational standards, and remain on schedule and within budget
• Leads or supports development of mission concepts of operations (CONOPS), operational uses, and system maneuver strategies
• Evaluates vendor and subcontractor capabilities to ensure delivered products and services satisfy system-level requirements
• Supports or leads proposal efforts, including managing small projects, coordinating technical inputs, and developing long-term customer relationships
• Cultivates business development opportunities and maintains professional relationships with customers to secure follow-on work
• Presents technical work at conferences or meetings as required
• Mentors mid-level and junior Engineers, contributing to workforce development and improving organizational systems engineering capability

• Must be a US citizen and have an active DoD Top Secret Security Clearance and be SAP eligible
• BS in engineering or related science and 15 years of relevant experience, or a MS and 13 years of relevant experience, or a PhD and 9 years of relevant experience
• Basic knowledge of cloud architectures and interfaces
• Advanced leadership capability, providing technical oversight as Lead Systems Engineer on medium- to large-sized, high-complexity programs
• Mastery of core systems engineering processes, including requirements development and verification, risk management, interface control, configuration management, and system trade studies
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability, with a proven track record of responding resourcefully to new challenges, changing requirements, and evolving program conditions
• Exceptional communication and relationship skills with the ability to relate effectively to stakeholders at all levels, preserve relationships under pressure, and clearly present technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence interdisciplinary engineering teams, providing direction during design, integration, proposal development, and system reviews
• Experience mentoring and developing junior and mid-level Engineers, raising organizational capability in systems engineering principles and best practices
• Proficiency in evaluating vendor and subcontractor capabilities, ensuring delivered products and services satisfy system-level requirements
• Highly organized with strong planning skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain technical baselines, and provide accurate cost and schedule inputs to Program Managers and proposal efforts
• Strong system-level focus with attention to detail, ensuring technical completeness while maintaining awareness of mission, operational context, and program constraints
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and systems engineering tools and analysis methods
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, contributing individually while strengthening team performance
• Ability to travel as required

• 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
• Experience with ground systems including both software and hardware ground component functionality
• Knowledge of satellite communication protocols and standards
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices related to satellite operations
• Experience with satellite ground station equipment and connectivity, including antennas and RF systems
• Familiarity with cloud computing platforms and their integration with ground systems

• $140,000 - $180,000
  • 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.