Auria is looking to hire a Modeling & Simulation Systems Engineer to support the Modeling and Simulation Vistas - Threat and Advanced Simulation Development (MSV-TASD). This position will be located on-site at Schriever Space Force Base, in Colorado Springs, CO.
This position will join the Infrared Radiation Hard Body (IRHB) Missile Modeling team as a Systems Engineer for the Threat and Advanced Simulation Development (TASD) Threat Systems Engineering (TSE) / Threat Modeling Center (TMC).
This position is responsible for the development and delivery of high-fidelity threat modeling products in support of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and MDA's Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). TMC is responsible for the development of models and simulations (M&S) used to stimulate element models of MDA's BMDS, including kinematic missile modeling, IR and RF signatures modeling, data production/analysis activities, and maintenance/sustainment activities for the entire TMC software baseline. TMC is a cornerstone element to the Threat and Advanced Simulation Development (TASD), as part of the MDA Engineering Directorate (DE) Task Order.
The IRHB specialized position will be responsible for capturing and documenting requirements as they pertain to the infrared signature representation of a missile as well as developing infrared hard body missile threat models for use in a variety of modeling and simulation tools/frameworks/media.
To successfully support the mission, the IRHB Engineer will be involved in direct discussions and collaborations with threat stakeholders, intelligence analysts, and fellow engineers to achieve highest fidelity representation and simulation of missile systems' objects. The selected individual will work with little to no direct supervision; and work as an integral member of missile modeling team.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO: - Gain experience with threat model phenomenology with focus on IR signatures.
- Gain experience with IR signature predictions and simulation models
- Work with the team to ensure completion of data production needs in support of MDA Ground Test Modeling and Simulation
- Work in close coordination with TMC's Software Engineers
- Work in close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders in the development of IRHB models for new systems and often updates to existing missile systems.
- Gain experience in understanding stakeholders' requirements and work with the team to ensure vigilant Verification and Validation (V&V) process of deliverables.
- Work with the team to ensure automation and tools improvement are rightfully coordinated - aiming to attain utmost efficiency and meet Leadership objectives.
- Work on defined schedule to timely support MDA Ground Test Modeling and Simulation events.
WHAT THE TEAM REQUIRES: - Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math) discipline preferred with 2 years of relevant experience, or 0-2 years' experience with a Masters' Degree.
- Strong math, physics and/or engineering background
- Ability and willingness to travel up to 10% of the time to support business needs.
- Applicants must have a current active in-scope U.S. Government issued Secret security clearance at the time of application which is required to start.
- Experience with technical analysis of data sets
- Familiarity with basic thermodynamics
- Experience with scripting/automation languages such as Python, Bash, or MATLAB
- Experience with Verification and Validation of data
- Must have a good understanding of modeling and simulation methods and processes.
- Applicants must be result-focused, work well within a dynamic team environment, be self-motivated, and be able to produce reliable products and documentation within established deadlines.
- Mission-Driven Professional: Collaborative contributor motivated by the opportunity to develop cutting-edge solutions that protect and serve both the nation and the world.
WHAT THE TEAM PREFERS: - Previous experience with analyzing flight characteristics, motion, atmospheric dynamics, and missile performance parameters of ballistic missiles is highly desirable
- Strong background in missile system engineering performance
- Familiarity with material science
- Background in IR Signatures modeling
- Familiarity with Optical Signatures Code (OSC)
- Experience in Agile software development methodologies including Scrum and Kanban
- Familiarity with the flight characteristics, motion, and performance of missile systems
- Familiarity with infrared signature concepts and physics behind hard body heating and how they affect infrared intensities.
PAY TRANSPARENCY: The salary offered will be based on the selected candidate's qualifications - skills, education & experience - and the position level. $106,000 - $126,000
APPLICATION DEADLINE: November 15, 2026
Pay Range: $106,000 - $126,000 per year