Systems Engineer VI
Job description
About the role
This role advances mission-critical defense, national security, and space technology solutions from ground to space. The position develops and maintains predictive models, designs grain geometries, and supports test and analysis workflows. The role produces technical documentation, ensures compliance, and integrates simulation tools with MBSE artifacts.
Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.
Key facts
What you'll do
Propellant and ballistics analysis defines grain designs and validates performance against static fire test data to meet motor objectives.
SPP and HERO codes are used for ballistic and threat assessments where required.
Coding standards and software best practices are followed and enforced across simulation activities to ensure quality and traceability.
Software unit-level verification is supported for simulation, performance, and test software products to ensure correctness.
Small computing clusters or simulation servers are deployed and configured under supervision to enable analysis workflows.
Alternate computing architectures are studied and prototyped, including real-time simulators for mission scenarios.
Simulation tools and components are packaged and delivered to internal and external stakeholders for integration and use.
MBSE models and SysML/Cameo artifacts are aligned with simulation components to maintain consistency across design domains.
Requirements
15+ years of mechanical engineering experience is required.
A Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other relevant engineering discipline from an accredited university is required; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Travel approximately 10% of the time is required.
Nice to have
Rocket motor design and testing experience is preferred.
A Master of Science in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or other relevant engineering discipline from an accredited university is preferred. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Skills & tools
Proficiency in C++, Python, MATLAB/Simulink, and scripting languages supports modeling and automation needs.
Familiarity with SysML and MBSE workflows (for example Cameo) or willingness to learn enables integration with system models.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills support complex engineering challenges.
Independence on well-defined tasks and effective team collaboration ensures timely delivery.
Practical notes
This role may require US citizenship and compliance with export control and ITAR regulations.
The position allows remote or hybrid arrangements with defined onsite expectations as needed.
Travel approximately 10% of the time is required.
Typical interview steps
Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.
Good to know
This role applies mechanical engineering fundamentals to solid rocket motor design and analysis.
Ballistics, combustion modeling, and test analysis are central to the work performed.
The role uses SPP, HERO, CEA, MATLAB, and CAD tools for design and simulation.
Clearance and compliance requirements may apply depending on assignment and customer needs.
Success depends on strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with cross-functional teams.