Ground Systems Engineer

Space Systems Integration (SSI) is a fast-growing engineering company that provides aerospace solutions to a variety of government and commercial customers.  Our employees are forward-thinking, self-directed individuals who are committed to solving our customers’ technical challenges. SSI is seeking a Lead Ground Systems Engineer to serve as a key Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) advisor to a critical Government Customer in Chantilly, VA. In this role, you will represent the customer’s technical interests by overseeing a Prime Contractor developing a bespoke satellite ground solution. This program focuses strictly on Vehicle Command & Control (C2), Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C), Health & Safety, and Mission Management. Operating on an aggressive operational deployment timeline, you will evaluate system-level architectures, oversee contractor design milestones, and ensure seamless integration into the customer's broader Enterprise framework. Role and Responsibilities include: Act as the government customer's trusted technical advisor to evaluate ground system designs, identify risks, and recommend technical acceptance throughout the development lifecycle. Review Prime Contractor architectural deliveries, system interfaces, and write/evaluate Interface Control Documents (ICDs) to ensure compatibility with larger Enterprise systems. Lead system-level evaluations during early-to-mid program milestones, including Preliminary Design Reviews (PDR) and Critical Design Reviews (CDR). Perform deep-dive evaluations into ground concepts and module interactions. (Note: This is a system architecture and oversight role; hands-on code development or line-by-line code audits are not required). Oversee contractor testing execution and V&V activities to verify that ground system performance satisfies mission requirements prior to operational fielding. Drive rapid technical resolution and balance program trade-offs to keep the program on track for accelerated fielding.