Systems Engineer II - Project Engineer with Security Clearance
The Systems Engineer II - Project Engineer supports technical planning and execution of defense and aerospace projects, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing project schedules and deliverables. This role involves maintaining engineering documentation, tracking contract requirements, and assisting with subcontractor coordination under close supervision, contributing to mission-critical national security and space technology initiatives.
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, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a Systems Engineer II (Project Engineer) to support defense and aerospace programs in Folsom, CA. In this entry-level engineering role you will provide technical coordination and execution support under close supervision, reporting to the Systems Engineering Manager within the Strategic Systems Engineering department.
What You’ll Do
- Support technical planning and execution of assigned work packages on defense and aerospace projects
- Participate in Integrated Product Team (IPT) meetings; capture action items, minutes, and follow-ups
- Assist in maintaining integrated master schedules and milestone tracking (IMP/IMS)
- Track subcontract technical execution, coordination items, deliverables, and interface information
- Assist in preparing statement of work (SOW) inputs for internal and subcontracted efforts
- Draft and maintain engineering documentation (test plans, ECNs, interface documents) for senior engineer review
- Track program deliverables, CDRLs, and contract requirements per established procedures
- Identify and escalate technical risks to senior team members
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in systems engineering, aerospace engineering or related STEM field with 2 years of project engineering experience; OR
- Master’s degree in project engineering or related STEM field with 1 year of experience; OR
- 6 years of project engineering experience in lieu of a degree; OR
- High school diploma or equivalent with relevant experience
- Basic understanding of the engineering project lifecycle from requirements definition through verification and delivery
- Familiarity with Earned Value Management (EVM) and Integrated Master Plans/Schedules (IMP/IMS) concepts (training provided)
- Exposure to aerospace or defense industry programs (DoD/MDA exposure preferred)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for interfacing with multidisciplinary teams
- Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and willing to learn and accept direction
- U.S. citizenship required due to federal contract eligibility; must have or be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance
- Must comply with ITAR regulations
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or co-op experience in aerospace or defense, or exposure to propulsion systems or solid rocket motors
- Familiarity with project planning and engineering management tools (Microsoft Project, Primavera, or equivalent)
- Prior experience tracking contract deliverables (CDRLs) and preparing engineering documentation
Travel & Work Requirements
- Travel up to 5–10%, occasional overnights for customer reviews or test events
- Work location: Folsom, CA (on-site or as directed by the client)
- Must meet federal contract eligibility and security clearance requirements
Compensation & Benefits
- California base salary range: $86,800 - $128,000 (base salary only). Final placement within the range depends on experience, skills, and location. This position is incentive-plan eligible.
- Benefits highlights:
- Flexible Time Off (FTO)
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company match up to 4%
- Wellness programs and gym discounts
- Additional voluntary benefits and employee support resources
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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