Ground Systems Engineer
Overview
VTG is looking for a Systems Engineer - Software in Chantilly, VA. (Note: Contingent upon program award) The Systems Engineer - Software supports NRO programs by assisting in the engineering and integration of software‑intensive mission systems. This role focuses on requirements traceability, system documentation, interface support, and verification activities under the guidance of senior engineers. The engineer applies foundational systems engineering principles to support the full lifecycle of NRO systems, with emphasis on software, data flows, and system interfaces.
Responsibilities
Junior Systems Engineer
- Assist with requirements decomposition, allocation, and traceability (e.g., system → subsystem → software component)
- Support development and maintenance of system artifacts (requirements documents, interface control documents, CONOPS inputs)
- Assist in verification and validation (V&V) planning and execution for software‑enabled systems
- Support integration and test activities involving software, data, and infrastructure components
- Participate in technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR) as a supporting engineer
- Collaborate with software developers to ensure alignment between requirements and implementation
Mid-Level Systems Engineer
- Lead or independently execute requirements analysis and decomposition for software‑centric systems
- Develop and maintain system and software interface documentation
- Evaluate system designs for technical feasibility, risk, and alignment with NRO enterprise standards
- Support digital engineering and model‑based systems engineering (MBSE) efforts
- Support lifecycle readiness activities and risk assessments for software‑enabled capabilities
- Provide technical input to acquisition documents and program reviews
Senior Systems Engineer
Lead end‑to‑end systems engineering for large or complex software‑intensive systems
Architect and evaluate system and software solutions to meet mission needs
Oversee requirements traceability from mission objectives through software implementation and verification
Lead or support enterprise‑level technical reviews and readiness assessments
Identify and mitigate technical risks associated with software, integration, and system interoperability
Mentor junior and mid‑level systems engineers
Serve as a trusted technical advisor to NRO program and government leadership
Expert knowledge of systems engineering principles and lifecycle processes
Deep understanding of software architectures, cloud and enterprise systems, and data‑driven architectures
Experience with MBSE, digital engineering, and enterprise integration
- Ability to lead technical teams and interface with senior government stakeholders
Qualifications
- TS/SCI with Poly Required
- Bachelor’s Degree; Preferred Concentration: Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related discipline
Junior Systems Engineer
- 1-4 years experience; with relevant experience on a program or organization at the same size/scope.
Mid-Level Systems Engineer
- 5-9 years experience; with relevant experience on a program or organization at the same size/scope.
Senior Systems Engineer
- 10+ years experience; with relevant experience on a program or organization at the same size/scope.