Systems Engineer

About The Role

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting‑edge cloud‑based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission‑critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking a Systems Engineer to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location.

The Systems Engineer is collaborating within a fast‑paced, customer‑focused test and experimentation team. This role requires deep experience in designing, developing, integrating, and testing complex software and hardware systems in mission‑critical environments. This role applies interdisciplinary engineering principles to ensure that hardware, software, networks, and mission systems operate effectively, securely, and in compliance with Department of Defense standards and regulations.

• All applicants must currently possess an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
• This is an on‑site position. Requires at least 5 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA location.

• Department: Engineering
• Employment Type: Full Time
• Location: Arlington, VA
• Address: 4401 Wilson Boulevard Suite 810, Arlington, Virginia, 22203
• Workplace type: Onsite
• Compensation: $90,000 - $184,000 / year

• Support full systems engineering lifecycle including requirement analysis, system design, integration, validation, test, deployment and operational support of complex systems supporting DoD and Navy operational and developmental testing.
• Conduct architecture analysis for distributed combat systems (hardware/software/network).
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including program management, cybersecurity, software development, hardware engineering, logistics, and test organizations.
• Develop and approve test plans, procedures, and operational methodologies for complex systems and distributed architectures.
• Analyze test results and provide clear, actionable assessments against requirements, including recommendations for corrective actions.
• Participate in technical reviews (MRA, MRR, DAWG, TWEG, etc.) and support government and stakeholder briefings.
• Support model‑based systems engineering (MBSE) artifacts including SysML diagrams and interface models.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related STEM field or equivalent relevant professional full‑time experience.
• 3‑5 years of relevant experience in systems engineering or integration roles.
• Strong system integration and test experience, including distributed and tactical systems.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering processes, including requirements traceability and configuration management.
• Experience leading or coordinating test execution and integration activities across functional teams.
• Experience supporting U.S. Navy combat systems integration, testing, or sustainment.
• Strong understanding of real‑time distributed systems, radar systems, and weapon control logic.
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing priorities and execute multiple concurrent assignments.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

• Experience with Navy surface warfare systems and tactical applications (e.g., Aegis Weapon System, SSDS, CEC, Link‑16).
• Support integration of radar, systems (IFF), and weapon systems (e.g., RAM, ESSM, CIWS) into an automated self‑defense architecture.
• Develop and maintain interface control documents (ICDs) across fire control and command subsystems.
• Experience working with land‑based test site events and at‑sea Combat System Ship Qualification Trials (CSSQT).
• Perform trade studies evaluating performance, latency, cybersecurity posture, and interoperability.
• Experience running, testing, and troubleshooting large‑scale or distributed DoD software systems.
• Experience supporting rapid prototyping, experimentation, and capability demonstrations.
• Experience with Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).

• Generous benefits package
• Competitive PTO
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
• 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
• Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
• Professional Development Resources
• Pre‑Tax Commuter Benefits
• Organization‑Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards
• Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.