Defense Programs Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

. Provide expert systems engineering and integration support to NNSA weapons modernization programs through systems architecture, technology development planning, organizational effectiveness studies, risk assessments, and lifecycle acquisition program reviews .

Posted 10/28/2026full-timeUnited StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $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 within the nuclear weapons lifecycle, emphasizing risk assessment, technical integration, and project management. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and mentor junior staff while effectively communicating complex technical concepts to diverse stakeholders.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Systems EngineeringProject ManagementTechnical IntegrationDigital EngineeringNNSA Defense Programs

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Requirements DevelopmentRisk MitigationTechnical AnalysisEngineering AnalysisPython

Soft Skills

Strong Communication SkillsMentorshipLeadership

Tools & Technologies

Cameo Systems ModelerJIRAConfluenceDOORSJama Connect

Certifications & Qualifications

Active Top Secret ClearanceQ Clearance

Industry Keywords

Nuclear Security EnterpriseWeapons ModernizationNational Security SystemsStockpile StewardshipMBSE Standards

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide expert systems engineering and integration support to NNSA weapons modernization programs through 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, leveraging Aerospace's engineering backplane to deliver technical solutions
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, manage multiple concurrent efforts, and deliver results on time and within scope
Represent The Aerospace Corporation to NNSA customers, building trusted relationships and demonstrating technical credibility
Senior-level: serve as a senior technical authority and consultant to NNSA leadership; provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior staff

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or related technical field from an accredited university
Project Engineer: Six (6) years of progressive experience in systems engineering, acquisition program development and management, or technical operations involving sophisticated national security systems
Sr. Project/Systems Engineer: Ten (10) years of progressive experience in systems engineering, acquisition program development and management, or technical operations involving sophisticated national security systems
Familiarity with the Nuclear Security Enterprise, including NNSA and its national laboratories, production plants, and sites; understanding of NNSA Defense Programs missions
Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to senior leadership, technical staff, and program managers
Capability to perform technical analysis and contribute to high-quality technical products
Ability to travel occasionally, up to 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, including leading cross-functional teams, formulating plans, managing schedules and deliverables, coordinating complex technical efforts, mentoring staff, and serving as a technical authority or consultant
Preferred: Master's degree or Ph.D. in engineering, science, systems engineering, or related technical field
Preferred: Extensive knowledge of NNSA Defense Programs, weapons modernization efforts, or stockpile stewardship initiatives
Preferred: Direct experience working at or closely with national laboratories
Preferred: Experience with MBSE standards, frameworks, and tools, including SysML, UAF, Cameo Systems Modeler, Genesys, or Sparx Enterprise Architect
Preferred: Proficiency with Python for engineering analysis, automation, or tool development
Preferred: Familiarity with Cameo Systems Modeler, JIRA, Confluence, DOORS, Jama Connect, and Syndeia
Preferred: Enterprise-level perspective with prior Program Office(s) and ETG experience

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
Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect