Job Description
Job ID: 6963
Date Posted: March 18, 2026 Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) Strategic & Military Space Division is seeking a senior, highly-motivated Missile Defense and Space Systems Engineer/Architect to support efforts in Colorado Springs, CO. The selected candidate will serve as an embedded subject matter expert (SME) with the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) Space Capabilities Directorate. Missile Defense system development, design, integration, test and program execution experience, involving the utilization of overhead sensor data, with advanced, integrated, air and missile defense systems, is required. The selected candidate will support program managers and other technical professionals in defining requirements, interfaces, allocation of capabilities, and leading the integration and verification testing across multiple partner capabilities, programs, and weapon systems including space, space-to-ground, and ground segments.
Candidates are required to have demonstrated, superior technical leadership skills and extensive subject matter expertise in space systems and systems engineering disciplines. An active DoW TS clearance with SCI eligibility is required.
The selected candidate should be an expert in systems engineering and system of systems architectures. The selected candidate should possess a broad knowledge, understanding, and perspective on the application of systems engineering to the design, development, test, and fielding of complex on-orbit prototype demonstrations and operational constellations of military space systems. The selected candidate will support MDA and their development of new space capabilities and architectures.
Key Responsibilities: - Leads, organizes, and conducts trade studies, design analyses, and engineering analyses/studies to identify and resolve issues impacting MDA missions, functions, programs, and systems
- Leads the system-of-systems integration of complex space and ground segments, ensuring seamless data flow and communication
- Proactively identifies technical problems through application of technical expertise and analysis
- Utilizes connections within the Intelligence Community (IC) and the DoW to identify resources, partnership opportunities, related program activities, and technical data
- Supports MDA activities by providing technical leadership in multiple areas within and across the MDA enterprise
- Informs management and recommends courses of action while maintaining open lines of communication with stakeholders, customers, developers, and colleagues
- Anticipates risks and develops contingency plans to manage them
- Effectively communicates technical results, both verbally and in writing
- Represents MDA at government/industry forums and meetings, technical meetings, and symposia
- Leads cross-organizational project teams
- Mentors technical staff, developing and growing the next generation of technical leaders
Required Qualifications: - Demonstrated expertise and experience in space vehicles, space systems development, satellite ground systems development, missile defense enterprise, and missile defense C2 systems
- Proven experience with System of Systems integration across multiple organizations/agencies
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related science
- 15+ years of relevant experience
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Working knowledge of current IC and/or DoW classified and unclassified space systems and architectures
- Working knowledge of state-of-the-market hardware and/or software capabilities used in satellite systems
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, initiative-driven environment and to quickly prioritize and accomplish technical tasks
- Knowledge of systems engineering techniques and their application to large, DoW development programs
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with program management, customers, developers, and colleagues
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers
- Must be a U.S. citizen and have an active DoW Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility
- Must be able to travel to contractor and customer facilities
- Must be located or willing to relocate to Colorado Springs, CO
Preferred Qualifications: - Master’s degree or PhD in engineering or related science field, with 20+ years of relevant experience
- Recent experience in space systems programs or technology
- Experience with DoW engineering policies and best practices
- Experience with the test and evaluation of missile defense interceptor systems
- An active DoW TS/SCI clearance with previous experience on SAP programs
*Salary Range - $157,000 - $197,000
- Salary commensurate on education and relevant 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.
Job Tags
Full time, Relocation