Satellite Payload Systems Engineer, Lead

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Booz Allen is seeking a systems engineer with demonstrated experience in end-to-end payload development for spaceflight systems, including requirements derivation, architecture definition, subsystem integration, flight readiness verification, and thermal, vibration, and radiation environmental qualification. Preferred candidates will have contributed to payloads that have successfully completed launch and on‑orbit commissioning within operational LEO, MEO, GEO, or deep space missions.

As a Satellite Payload Lead Systems Engineer, you will play a key role in shaping next‑generation space systems for national security missions. You will apply deep expertise in satellite payloads, design and test of satellites, and space mission operations to architect, model, and assess end‑to‑end solutions. Working closely with systems engineers, software developers, and mission domain experts, you will conduct rigorous trade studies, define system‑level requirements and interfaces, and identify architecture gaps, risks, and technology opportunities critical to delivering resilient future space payloads.

You will collaborate directly with government clients and industry partners to maintain awareness of emerging space architecture and contribute to technical white papers, capability demonstrations, and proposals that position our team at the forefront of mission innovation. As our portfolio expands, you will have opportunities to lead systems engineering teams across multiple efforts, driving successful delivery of advanced space systems and shaping the direction of our space business.

Join us. The world can’t wait.

• 3+ years of experience supporting national security space programs, specifically in SIGINT or GEOINT mission areas
• Experience in the design, development, integration, and verification of payloads for spaceflight systems
• Experience with space vehicle design and manufacture practices, payload integration, and proto‑flight testing of space vehicle systems
• Experience executing systems engineering processes across the full lifecycle for satellite space systems, from requirements development through operational deployment
• Experience with descriptive modeling tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture or Magic Draw
• Experience developing analytical or automation scripts using engineering toolsets such as MATLAB, Python, or VBA
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines and work in a team environment
• Top Secret clearance
• Bachelor's degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics

• Experience integrating COTS products into space systems
• Experience developing high‑fidelity satellite models and simulations for proliferated constellations, including orbital dynamics, payload performance, and end‑to‑end mission effectiveness analysis
• Experience contributing to Agile and Dev Sec Ops  software development pipelines, including continuous integration, continuous delivery, automated testing, and secure software practices
• Ability to architect and deliver technical solutions within classified Intelligence Community or Department of Defense environments, adhering to security, accreditation, and mission‑assurance requirements
• Possession of excellent verbal and written communication skills
• TS/SCI clearance

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information;
Top Secret clearance is required.

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