Deputy Chief Engineer, Narrowband SATCOM

Help The United States Space Force (USSF) in San Diego, CA is searching for a Deputy Chief Engineer for Narrowband SATCOM (NH-0801-04, GS-14/15). Description: The primary purpose of this position is to serve as the Deputy Chief Engineer for the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) Engineering Branch (SSC SYD 88/NXE) within the Satellite Communication and Position, Navigation, and Timing (SCPNT) Portfolio. In this critical leadership role, the incumbent directs and supports the activities of the Chief Engineer and Civilian/Senior Materiel Leader (SML) to advance SCPNT Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) objectives. Operating with a high degree of independence, the employee is responsible for conceiving and executing solutions to highly complex acquisition and engineering challenges, analyzing project findings, and guiding the technical and programmatic efforts of junior team members. Work is executed autonomously, with completed initiatives reviewed primarily for feasibility, compatibility, and overall mission effectiveness in delivering critical space-based capabilities. The position requires knowledge of systems engineering and discipline associated systems engineering such as systems engineering plans, test, and evaluation plans, life-cycle engineering, operational safety, suitability and effectiveness plans, specs and standards, national environmental policy act, and programmatic environmental safety and health evaluations. Manage program protection and cybersecurity tasks required to maintain Authorities to Operate (ATOs) and to counter emerging cybersecurity threats. Additionally, you will direct the program protection and cybersecurity strategy required to maintain global Authorities to Operate (ATOs) and counter emerging threats. You will manage the development and updating of the Program Protection Plan (PPP)-including the Security Classification Guide (SCG), Counter-Intelligence Support Plan (CISP), Criticality Analysis (CA), Anti-Tamper Plan (ATP), and Cybersecurity Strategy (CSS). Crucially, you will guide the system's security evolution by directing Zero Trust (ZT) migration across all enclaves and managing the development, integration, and insertion of modernized NSA-certified encryption devices and specialized waveforms across both space and ground segments. At the core of this portfolio is the MUOS Service Life Extension (SLE) program-a high-visibility, $5B ACAT 1B acquisition effort designed to sustain the DoW's premier Narrowband satellite communication system. As Deputy, you will oversee the Service Life Extension (SLE) Development and Production contract awarded to Boeing to develop, manufacture, test, and launch two new geostationary Space Vehicles (SV 6 and SV 7) by 2031 and 2032; and General Dynamics to modernize ground systems to integrated SLE SV 6 & 7 into existing constellation up to 2040. These satellites will integrate advanced Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) technology to extend secure, worldwide Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) SATCOM services for mobile and fixed-site warfighters, ensuring seamless continuity of operations for U.S. and coalition partners. Ideal Candidate: 1. Acquisition experience, actively embedded within a Program Office (Government or Industry). 2. Extensive experience managing complex Systems Engineering projects supporting DoW or Federal Government system acquisitions. 3. Subject Matter Expert (SME) knowledge of systems engineering, satellite communications systems, systems integration, and developmental testing. 4. Ability to successfully plan and structure work statements and contract deliverables for completion of engineering studies or delivery of technical solutions to the government. 5. Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing with various levels of high-ranking military and civilian personnel 6. Knowledge of program management, contractual oversight, and organizational processes needed to plan and execute high-value research support contracts. 7. Ability to advise senior leaders, program managers, and technical stakeholders on program execution, contract strategy, and issue resolution. 8. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, exercise sound judgment to resolve complex issues while sustaining productive stakeholder relationships. Requirements Conditions of employment - Must be a U.S Citizen. - Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret / SCI security clearance. - This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent is subject to pre-employment drug testing as a condition of employment, and participation in random drug testing. - Required to handle and safeguard sensitive and/or classified information in accordance with regulations to reduce potential compromise. - Incumbent may be required to work non-standard duty hours (evenings/weekends), overtime, or credit hours, and remains subject to recall during exercises, contingencies, or emergency situations. - A professional engineering degree at the bachelor's level from an ABET accredited institution is highly desired. - This position will close after 5 business days or 75 applications, whichever comes first. - Eligible for situational telework only, including Emergency and OPM prescribed "Unscheduled Telework". - Subject to Temporary Duty Assignment (TDY): Approximately 15 days per year. - This is a Critical Acquisition Position. - The employee is required to submit an initial and annual SF-450 (Financial Disclosure). - PCS / relocation funding is available and may be offered. Qualifications The 0801 series has an individual occupational requirement that must be met and can be viewed here. In addition to the above requirements you can view the experience level requirements here. Please scroll down to the 4th section titled Professional and Scientific Positions. Additional information Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information. Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here. Expand Hide additional information Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits. Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.