Systems Engineer

Systems EngineerThe Systems Engineer provides engineering leadership and coordinates cross-functional efforts for complex defense-related projects. This role serves as the primary technical interface among engineering, program management, customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders, ensuring the successful execution of technical scope, schedule, and risk management.Responsibilities Serve as technical lead and integrator for assigned defense and aerospace projects. Develop, maintain, and execute integrated master schedules in coordination with engineering and program management. Manage and lead Integrated Product Teams (IPTs), including resource allocation and task prioritization across disciplines. Coordinate cross-disciplinary engineering inputs (mechanical, electrical, systems, software). Drive risk and opportunity management planning and mitigation strategies. Manage and develop complex project planning and integration activities involving cross-functional engineering teams. Develop statement of work (SOW) for internal and subcontracted efforts. Manage subcontract technical execution, including coordination, oversight, and interface control. Conduct hardware procurement planning and lead trade studies to inform make/buy decisions. Support customer technical interchange meetings, design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR), and working groups. Author and review engineering documentation, including Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Engineering Change Notices (ECNs), and test plans. Ensure compliance with CDRLs, program contract requirements, deliverables, and related obligations.Essential Skills Electrical engineering. Software integration. Integration testing. Systems engineering. Requirements management and definition. Ability to manage engineering projects from requirements definition through verification and delivery.Additional Skills & Qualifications Strong leadership and people skills with a collaborative, mission-focused mindset. Strong technical experience and sound engineering decision-making. Proficient in customer expectation management, communication, and stakeholder management. 710 years of project engineering, systems engineering, or technical leadership experience. Experience in aerospace or defense industry, preferably on DoD and MDA programs. Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM) and Integrated Master Plans/Schedules (IMP/IMS). Experience as a Control Account Manager (CAM) under full EVMS-compliant contracts. Proficient in applying systems engineering methodologies and processes. Bachelors degree in systems engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical, electrical engineering, or related STEM field. Masters degree in systems engineering or related discipline is desirable and may substitute for 1 year of experience. Preferred knowledge of controllable solids technology and propulsion-related system integration. Prior experience interfacing with DoD customers and supporting proposal efforts is a plus.Work EnvironmentThis position is within an innovative defense, national security, and space technology company committed to delivering transformative, mission-critical solutions. The work environment is fast-paced and deadline-driven, requiring approximately 10% travel to support program and customer needs. It involves working in secure or classified environments, as necessary.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $70.00 - $90.00/hr.Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in San Diego, CA.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Aug 20, 2025.About ActalentActalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actALENTaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.