SAIC is seeking a
Satellite Payload Engineer to provide onsite systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) services in support of an SAIC Prime Program supporting the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) in Chantilly, VA.
Note: Qualified candidates must have an active Top Secret/SCI clearance with the ability to obtain a Poly to be considered. As a
Satellite Payload Engineer, you will support technical efforts requiring deep expertise in satellite payload architecture, SAR payload development, SAR processing and image formation, and end-to-end image chain performance. You will apply hands-on satellite hardware experience and radar payload system knowledge to assess performance, resolve issues, and ensure seamless integration across space and ground segments. You will also drive enterprise-level trade studies to define and refine requirements for future satellite capabilities, supporting mission success across the full lifecycle.
Job Responsibilities to include.
- Evaluate satellite payload requirements compliance by working with the Prime contractor to analyze evidence, assess technical adequacy, and drive closure of open issues.
- Review test plans and results to evaluate payload performance at the unit, subsystem, and system levels, including SAR and radar payload components.
- Perform detailed analysis of SAR processing chains, image formation algorithms, calibration/validation data, and payload-to-ground data flow.
- Assist with understanding and resolving anomalies, performing root cause analysis, and identifying corrective actions, including evaluating technical and schedule impacts.
- Identify and assess emerging technical and programmatic risks at the enterprise, system, and subsystem levels, and collaborate with Prime and Subcontractor teams to develop and evaluate mitigation strategies.
- Build and maintain productive relationships with Prime and Subcontractor counterparts, functional teams, and subject matter experts to ensure effective collaboration.
- Evaluate entrance and exit criteria for major program reviews, such as Pre-Ship Reviews.
- Support trade studies to define and further develop requirements for future satellite systems, including next-generation SAR and radar payload capabilities.
QualificationsRequired Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree and fourteen (14) or more years of relevant experience; Master's degree and twelve (12) or more years; PhD or JD and nine (9) or more years.
- Active Top Secret /SCI with the ability to obtain a Poly
- SAR Payload Development - experience supporting the design, development, integration, verification, or performance assessment of SAR payloads.
- SAR Processing & Image Formation - strong understanding of SAR algorithms, image formation techniques, calibration/validation processes, and mission data processing chains.
- Satellite Hardware- hands-on experience with payload hardware, test equipment, unit- or subsystem-level integration, environmental testing, or hardware troubleshooting.
- Radar Payload Systems - experience in radar payload architectures, RF chains, waveform design, performance modeling, and radar-to-ground data interfaces.
- Strong interpersonal, leadership, team-building, and analytical problem-solving skills, with demonstrated effectiveness in a government/contractor environment.
