Systems Engineer V -Strategic Systems, Systems Engineer MSAD Verified today

About the Role

The Level V Modeling, Simulation, and Controls Engineer serves as a senior technical authority, leading complex modeling and control systems efforts across propulsion and aerospace programs. You will develop system architectures, design and validate algorithms, mentor junior engineers, and ensure modeling rigor in support of programmatic and customer objectives. This role requires deep domain expertise in solid rocket motor performance and controllable solids technologies, applying advanced modeling and control methodologies to support propulsion system development and integration.

What You Will Do

• Lead the development of high-fidelity system models and control algorithms for propulsion, guidance, and flight control systems
• Develop system simulation architectures to support design, verification, and validation of aerospace control systems
• Perform detailed controllability studies of dynamic systems to assess response and regulation characteristics
• Architect control system topologies and define gain tuning methodologies for various system types
• Serve as the primary performance engineer for assigned programs, including requirements derivation, margin management, and internal/external performance trades
• Conduct system-level analysis and performance assessments, including Monte Carlo and sensitivity studies
• Apply physics-based modeling techniques to represent real-world system behavior with high fidelity
• Lead and contribute to ballistics modeling and performance analysis of solid rocket motor systems
• Lead modeling, simulation, and performance assessment of actuation systems for propulsion control systems and dynamic mechanisms, including integration into closed-loop control architectures
• Aid customers in developing mission CONOPS and requirements through propulsion system modeling and controls design
• Create, validate, and deploy advanced estimation techniques to enhance product performance and reduce cost
• Extend company capabilities in advanced control schemes, including state-space and modern control strategies
• Perform flight vehicle control simulation and analysis in support of propulsion concept development and company portfolio growth
• Guide modeling and simulation strategy for new programs and proposals
• Provide technical oversight across multidisciplinary teams (GNC, software, systems, test)
• Interface with customers to define requirements, present technical results, and support milestone reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR)
• Mentor and review the work of junior engineers in model development, test support, and controls design
• Author and review technical documentation, including modeling reports, test plans, ICDs, and interface specifications
• Ensure models and simulations meet program standards for verification, validation, and configuration control
• Lead technical trade studies and support technology maturation planning for advanced control systems and propulsion concepts

Required Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship required due to government program requirements and ITAR compliance
• Must have or be able to obtain and maintain an active DoD Secret Clearance
• Demonstrated ability to lead engineering efforts across full lifecycle from concept development through verification and delivery
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and interpersonal skills with a collaborative, mission-focused mindset
• Strong systems thinking and ability to work across functional boundaries
• Deep technical background in modeling, control systems, and system dynamics
• Proven ability to interface with DoD customers and guide technical teams through complex problem-solving
• High standards for technical rigor and continuous improvement
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, technical risk management, and customer expectation management

Experience

• 10-15 years of experience in modeling and simulation, control systems, or algorithm development within aerospace or defense industries
• Deep expertise in dynamic modeling, control system design, and simulation architecture
• Extensive background in propulsion performance modeling, including solid rocket motors and controllable solids technology
• Experience with physics-based modeling of mechanical, thermal, and aerodynamic systems
• Understanding of customer-defined flight trajectory constraints and their influence on propulsion system modeling and control design
• Demonstrated success leading technical teams and delivering results under complex program requirements
• Prior experience with Department of Defense (DoD), MDA, or similar government programs is strongly preferred

Education

• Bachelor's degree required in systems engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related STEM field from an accredited college or university
• Master's or Ph.D. in a related discipline from an accredited institution preferred; may substitute for up to 2 years of experience

Technical Skills

• Mastery of MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or equivalent tools for modeling and control system development
• Advanced understanding of classical and modern control techniques, including state-space control methods
• Skilled in model verification, validation, and integration into system architectures
• Strong capability in physics-based modeling and analysis of dynamic systems
• Solid understanding of ballistics modeling and propulsion system performance under varying mission profiles
• Generate SysML diagrams of product structure, product behavior, technical logic, engineering process, and test execution
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical leadership and stakeholder engagement
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage complex efforts across multiple programs

Additional Requirements

• Ability to travel up to 10% in support of program reviews, testing, and customer interface
• Must be comfortable working in secure or classified environments
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven development environment

Compensation

Salary range: $152,660-$197,258 (standard); $165,000-$220,000 (California). Comprehensive total compensation package includes discretionary annual bonus plan, paid time off, health benefits, retirement savings, and wellness program.