Systems Engineer – Satellite Ground Systems (JTAGS Program)

Overview

JTAGS' objective is simple: to receive, process and disseminate Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) sensor information on tactical ballistic missile (TBM) launches and other events of interest for warning, alerting and cueing via in-theater tactical and strategic communications networks.

Background

This opportunity is part of a high-impact defense program originally developed for the U.S. Army and now supporting the United States Space Force (USSF). The system receives and processes direct downlinked data from advanced infrared satellite sensors, such as the Defense Support Program (DSP) and Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS), to deliver near-real-time missile warning, alerting, and tactical event data across military communication networks. As part of the program team, you will contribute to mission-critical operations that safeguard national interests and provide strategic defense capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Participate in cross-functional coordination meetings, technical scrums, and program management reviews.

• Collaborate with Integrated Product Team (IPT) leads and program leadership to ensure system requirements are met.

• Develop and maintain systems engineering standard operating procedures (SOPs) and documentation.

• Review program plans, procedures, reports, and technical drawings for accuracy and completeness.

• Support development, verification, and validation of system, subsystem, and component-level requirements.

• Work closely with Integration and Test teams to ensure compliance with requirements.

• Conduct performance analysis using Matlab-based tools and support root cause/corrective action investigations.

• Perform model-based systems engineering (MBSE) using tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler and DoDAF.

• Track and resolve problem/deficiency reports in coordination with customer priorities.

• Provide technical mentorship to junior engineers and evaluate onboarding processes for new team members.

• Support future proposal work, including basis of estimate and statement of work development.

• Maintain robust documentation of the system baseline (drawings, parts lists, software lists, etc.).

• Identify risks, opportunities, and process improvements across systems engineering activities.

• Maintain strong working relationships with the U.S. Space Force customer.

Qualifications

5–8 years of relevant professional experience.

Active Secret clearance at the time of application, with the ability to obtain upgrade to TS/SCI.

Proficiency with:

• Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) OS (command line, file movement, permissions, etc.).
• Matlab (script development, troubleshooting, CVS revision management).
• IBM DOORS (requirements management, baselines).
• Deriving and documenting technical requirements from source requirements/CONOPS.

Knowledge of Cameo Systems Modeler (or similar MBSE tools) and DoDAF.

Strong technical writing skills (reports, procedures, briefings, diagrams).

Working knowledge of the Systems Engineering “V” lifecycle.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with satellite communications ground systems and/or missile warning systems.

• Experience developing, integrating, or testing GUI-based software on RHEL OS.

• Scripting experience (Python, Bash).

• Prior experience in team leadership or technical project management.

• Familiarity with Microsoft Project and control account management (CAM).

• Experience supporting U.S. Space Force programs as a defense contractor.

• Working knowledge of JIRA for task tracking and execution.

• Familiarity with DevSecOps practices and principles.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related STEM discipline required.

• Master’s degree preferred but not required.

 

Work Location & Hours

• Location: On-site in Colorado Springs, CO 

  • Classified closed-area environment

• Work Hours: Full-time, standard business hours with occasional after-hours support for mission-critical operations

 

Compensation

Compensation is dependent upon experience and qualifications, ranging from $120k-$175k

Benefits and EEO

At Ardent Eagle Solutions, we offer a comprehensive benefits package to our employees and their families:

• Medical/Dental/Vision Coverage
• Matching 401(k) Plan
• Continuing Education Assistance
• Paid Time Off

This job description is intended to describe the general scope of work and level of work that is needed to perform while on task with Ardent Eagle Solutions. Other duties may be assigned. Selected candidates may undergo a government security investigation and must fulfill eligibility criteria for accessing classified information. US citizenship may be a prerequisite for certain roles. Ardent Eagle Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer

 

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