Defense Programs Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

. Provide expert systems engineering and integration support to NNSA weapons modernization programs .

Posted 10/28/2026full-timeUnited StatesSeniorLead💰 $117,300 - $226,900 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in systems engineering and integration, particularly within the nuclear weapons lifecycle, while applying digital engineering methodologies and tools. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, manage complex technical efforts, and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Systems EngineeringDigital EngineeringProject ManagementTechnical AnalysisLeadership

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Systems ArchitectureRequirements DevelopmentRisk AssessmentTechnical IntegrationPythonMBSE ToolsProject Collaboration ToolsRequirements Management ToolsSystems Integration ToolsTechnical Operations

Soft Skills

Strong Communication SkillsMentoring

Tools & Technologies

Cameo Systems ModelerJIRAConfluenceDOORSJama ConnectSyndeia

Certifications & Qualifications

Active Top Secret ClearanceQ Clearance

Industry Keywords

NNSANational Security SystemsAcquisition Program DevelopmentOrganizational EffectivenessLifecycle Acquisition

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide expert systems engineering and integration support to NNSA weapons modernization programs
Conduct technical analyses including systems architecture, technology development planning, organizational effectiveness studies, risk assessments, and lifecycle acquisition program reviews
Lead or participate in integrated project teams and task execution
Apply systems engineering principles across the nuclear weapons lifecycle, including requirements development, interface management, technical integration, and risk mitigation
Apply digital engineering knowledge to implement digital solutions and improve customer adoption of digital engineering methodologies and tools
Collaborate with NNSA acquisition and modernization program staff and coordinate interfaces between customers and Aerospace technical and management staff
Formulate plans, lead or support studies, coordinate across organizational boundaries, and manage multiple concurrent efforts
Represent Aerospace Corporation to NNSA customers and build trusted relationships
Senior-level: serve as a senior technical authority and consultant to NNSA leadership; mentor junior staff and provide technical guidance

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or related technical field from an accredited university
Project Engineer: Eight (8) years of progressive experience in systems engineering, digital engineering, acquisition program development and management, or technical operations involving sophisticated national security systems
Senior Project/Systems Engineer: Ten (10) years of progressive experience in systems engineering, digital engineering, acquisition program development and management, or technical operations involving sophisticated national security systems
Familiarity with Python for engineering analysis, automation, or tool development
Familiarity with MBSE tools including Cameo Systems Modeler
Familiarity with project collaboration tools including JIRA and Confluence
Familiarity with requirements management tools including DOORS and Jama Connect
Familiarity with systems integration tools including Syndeia
Strong oral and written communication skills and ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
Capability to perform technical analysis and contribute to delivery of high-quality technical products
Ability to travel occasionally, approximately one week per month
Active Top Secret or Q Clearance issued by the U.S. government
U.S. citizenship required to maintain a security clearance
Senior-level candidates: strong project management and leadership skills, ability to lead cross-functional teams, formulate plans, manage schedules and deliverables, coordinate complex technical efforts, mentor staff, and serve as a technical authority or consultant

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect