Systems Engineer I – Stafford, VA
The Systems Engineer I at Confidential Client supports the Tactical Tomahawk Weapons Control System by developing and analyzing system requirements, architectures, and design specifications using MBSE methods and modeling tools. This entry-level role involves active participation in integrated product teams and engineering review boards, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with government and contractor personnel. The position demands an active Secret Clearance and involves regular travel to NSWC Dahlgren Division.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Defense & Aerospace (DoD contracting).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Systems Engineer I to support a Tactical Tomahawk Weapons Control System program. This role includes systems engineering tasks across requirements, architecture, interface definition, human-computer interface support, and change/package development. The position requires regular travel to NSWC Dahlgren Division (approximately once every 1–2 weeks) and an ACTIVE Secret clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.
Key Responsibilities
- Determine impacts on weapon system requirements and design specifications during engineering development.
- Review, analyze, and create requirements at multiple levels (SSS, SSDD, SRS, HRS) for system capability and functionality.
- Develop Candidate Change Packages (CCP) to engineer new capabilities and document design details and impacts.
- Review and develop system architectures using modeling tools (e.g., MagicDraw / Cameo).
- Provide human factors engineering, prototyping, and analysis for user interface requirements and HCI design specifications.
- Review and adjudicate comments for external interface documents and update interface definitions.
- Create and resolve change requests (CRs) related to system problems or discrepancies between design and functionality.
- Support IPT meetings, Engineering Review Boards (ERB), Deficiency Review Boards (DRB), Change Review Boards (CRB), and Interface Working Groups (IWG).
- Attend and contribute to weekly team meetings; prepare and deliver technical briefs and engineering summaries.
Minimum Requirements
- U.S. citizenship (required to obtain/maintain security clearance).
- ACTIVE Secret Clearance (required).
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in engineering, scientific, or technical discipline from an accredited college or university.
- Detail-oriented with strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to learn quickly and work effectively in multidisciplinary teams with government personnel and contractors.
Preferred Skills & Experience
- Experience with DoD programs or weapon systems (concept definition, architecture development, requirements definition, system design).
- Understanding of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and practical application of MBSE methods.
- Experience using Cameo/MagicDraw or other systems modeling tools.
- Experience with Jira for CR tracking and task management.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Project, Visio, and Word.
Compensation & Benefits
- Projected base salary range: $60,000 - $100,000 USD per year.
- Confidential Client determines compensation based on experience, education, skills, clearance, work location, and contract requirements.
- Benefits include medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage; ESOP; competitive 401(k); retirement/financial counseling; HSA/HRA; FSA; life insurance; short- & long-term disability; continuing education assistance; paid time off and holidays; employee assistance programs; and supplemental benefits.
Location, Travel & Clearance
- Job location: Stafford, VA (onsite/near-site support with travel to NSWC Dahlgren Division approximately every 1–2 weeks).
- ACTIVE Secret Clearance required. Applicants will be subject to a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
Why Work with Confidential Client
- Work on mission-critical defense systems that directly support U.S. military operations.
- Join a collaborative technical team and contribute to meaningful engineering solutions.
- Access professional development, modern facilities, and opportunities for career growth.
- Participate in a supportive culture focused on technical excellence and employee well-being.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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