Associate Systems Engineer

Job No: 503957
Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater)
Location: Dayton, OH
Category: Research Institute Staff
Department: Space Power Technologies - 250662
Pay Grade: R1 - Exempt
Advertised: October 19, 2026
Applications close: October 30, 2026

New ideas surround us, but only a few will change the world. We are building upon RPS design philosophies that have stood the test of time, and this is your opportunity to become part of a team that brings us one step closer. If you desire to create something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for UDRI.

The University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) Space Power Systems Office develops advanced power technologies that enable the next generation of space exploration missions. Working with sponsors including NASA, the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and commercial industry, our multidisciplinary teams research, design, prototype, test, and qualify novel space power systems capable of operating in some of the harshest environments ever encountered.

We are seeking an early-career Systems Engineer to support the development of advanced radioisotope power systems (RPS), spacecraft power architectures, thermal systems, and related aerospace technologies. Working alongside experienced engineers and scientists, the successful candidate will participate in systems engineering, digital engineering, hardware integration, testing, and technology maturation activities spanning concept development through prototype demonstration.

This position is intended to provide progressive experience across systems engineering, design, analysis, assembly, integration, and qualification activities, preparing engineers for increasing technical responsibility as they develop within the organization. It also provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical breadth across multiple engineering disciplines while contributing to pioneering aerospace programs supporting national security and space exploration.

• Assist in developing system requirements, interface definitions, verification methods, and technical documentation.
• Support development and maintenance of system architectures and technical baselines.
• Participate in engineering trade studies and technical evaluations.
• Apply systems engineering, MBSE, and digital engineering tools under senior engineer mentorship.

• Support engineering analyses including structural, thermal, electrical, and reliability assessments.
• Assist in interpreting analysis results and documenting engineering recommendations.
• Support development of verification and validation plans.

• Support assembly, integration, checkout, and testing of prototype hardware.
• Assist in preparing test procedures, data packages, and technical documentation.
• Participate in laboratory testing and data collection.
• Help investigate technical issues identified during assembly and testing.

• Participate in technical meetings with government and industry sponsors.
• Prepare technical presentations and engineering documentation.
• Support proposal preparation and technical reports.

• Develop technical knowledge in systems engineering, spacecraft power systems, and qualification methodologies through mentoring and project experience.
• Continuously improve engineering skills through formal training and hands‑on project participation.

• B.S. degree in Systems Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
• At least two years of engineering experience.
• Fundamental understanding of engineering principles.
• Familiarity with CAD software.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal…