> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/2222492-ground-systems-of-system-engineer-sme](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/2222492-ground-systems-of-system-engineer-sme). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Ground Systems of System Engineer SME - **Company:** Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. - **Location:** Huntsville, AL, United States - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Cloud Computing, Program Optimization, Databases, LabVIEW, MATLAB, Radio-Frequency Identification, Software Tools, Systems Architecture, Systems Integration, Virtualization Technology, Orbital Mechanics, Information Technology - **Published:** August 25, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.clearancejobs.com/jobs/9115863/ground-systems-of-system-engineer-sme ## About the Role Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field. Master's degree preferred with 15 years experience., * 15+ years of experience in systems engineering for space and ground assets, with emphasis on ground systems integration. * In-depth knowledge of ground station operations, telemetry, tracking, command systems, and communication architectures. * Proficiency in engineering tools such as STK, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar modeling platforms. * Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on large-scale system optimization. * Excellent collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. Required Security Clearance: * Must have an Active Top-Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility, * Experience working on DoD programs, such as Golden Dome or similar national security-focused initiatives. * Familiarity with industry standards for ground and space systems (e.g., CCSDS, MIL-STD protocols). * Certifications like Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), Network+, or Security+. * Hands-on experience with advanced networking technologies, virtualization, and cloud-based ground operations platforms. ## Description We are seeking a highly capable and collaborative Ground - System of Systems Engineer - SME to support the Golden Dome initiative's Common Ground Team, a key component of the program focused on ensuring seamless integration and operation of ground systems for space-based assets. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in space and ground systems to design, integrate, and optimize common ground architecture supporting Golden Dome's mission-critical objectives. As a vital member of the team, you will ensure the interoperability and reliability of ground systems to achieve mission goals efficiently and securely., As a Ground Systems Engineer for the Common Ground Team, your responsibilities will include: Spacecraft Operations & Commanding: * Hands-on experience flying, operating, and commanding on-orbit spacecraft, including real-time mission operations and command execution. TT&C & Ground-to-Space Communications: * Strong understanding of telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C), uplink/downlink operations, ground stations, RF communications, and end-to-end command and telemetry paths. Orbital & Constellation Operations: * Knowledge of orbital mechanics, ephemeris, orbit determination, station keeping, maneuver execution, collision avoidance (COLA), contact planning, and constellation operations. Command & Telemetry Architecture: * Experience with spacecraft command databases/dictionaries, command sequences, telemetry definitions, CCSDS protocols, packetization/framing, and command validation and verification. Ground Systems & Mission Operations: * Experience with mission/satellite operations centers, ground-system architectures, antenna networks, mission applications, and interfaces between ground software, networks, RF systems, and spacecraft. Systems Integration, Test & V&V: * Experience integrating and testing spacecraft and ground systems using simulators, SIL/HIL environments, flatsats, or operational test environments, including requirements verification and test-result analysis. ## Related Videos - [Security Pitfalls for Software Engineers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/726-security-pitfalls-for-software-engineers) - [Leveraging Large Language Models for Legacy Code Translation: Challenges and Solutions](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1157-leveraging-large-language-models-for-legacy-code-translation-challenges-and-solutions) - [Kubernetes and Microservices with Multi-Model Databases](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/382-kubernetes-and-microservices-with-multi-model-databases) - [Building a hypercar from scratch](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/607-building-a-hypercar-from-scratch) - [Fault Tolerance and Consistency at Scale: Harnessing the Power of Distributed SQL Databases](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1146-fault-tolerance-and-consistency-at-scale-harnessing-the-power-of-distributed-sql-databases) - [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies) ## Related Articles - [How We Built a Worry-Free System That Runs for 10+ Years – And What We’d Do Again](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/751-how-we-built-a-worry-free-system-that-runs-for-10-years-and-what-we-d-do-again) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering) - [A Guide to Green Tech and Green IT Careers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/374-a-guide-to-green-tech-and-green-it-careers) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [Where to Find Entry-Level Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/397-where-to-find-entry-level-software-engineering-jobs) - [The Ultimate Software Engineer Career Path Guide for 2023](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/146-the-ultimate-software-engineer-career-path-guide-for-2023)