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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Senior Systems Engineer - **Company:** Catalyst - **Location:** Stafford, VA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $120,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Systems Engineering, Microsoft Outlook, Catalyst (Software), Configuration Management, Databases, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project, Microsoft PowerPoint, Requirements Traceability, Microsoft SharePoint, System Testing, Technical Data Management Systems, Test Scripts - **Published:** August 24, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=c3df7b6e236c903e ## About the Role Catalyst Solutions is seeking a senior Systems Engineer with deep expertise in electro-optical and optronic systems to support the Combat Optics Team within Product Manager Infantry Weapons (PdM IW) at Marine Corps Systems Command (MCSC) in Quantico, Virginia. This position provides specialized technical engineering support across a portfolio of combat optics programs including image intensification, thermal imaging, laser aiming and ranging systems, and magnified optics for dismounted Marines. The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience with military electro-optical system testing, acquisition engineering, and the technical rigor required to advance next-generation optics capabilities from development through fielding in support of the Ground Combat Element. Security Clearance Requirement * Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. Education Requirements * Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field. Experience Requirements Experience requirements may be fulfilled simultaneously. * Ten (10) to twelve (12) years of relevant systems engineering experience with electro-optical, optronic, or photonics systems in a DoD acquisition environment; or a Master's degree with eight (8) to ten (10) years of equivalent experience. * Demonstrated experience with military electro-optical systems such as image intensification (I2), uncooled thermal imaging, laser aiming/ranging systems, or night vision devices across multiple phases of the Defense Acquisition Framework., * Experience with MCSC EOSF operations or similar Government electro-optical test facility environments. * Familiarity with MIL-STD-1913 rail systems, NVG/thermal integration, or laser safety standards (ANSI Z136). * Background supporting SBIR efforts or market research for emerging electro-optical or optronic technologies. Qualifications & Certifications * Active Secret security clearance or eligibility to obtain and maintain one (required). * Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Systems Engineering certification or equivalent DoD acquisition engineering training (preferred). * Common Access Card (CAC) eligibility; ability to comply with MCSC and MCB Quantico access control requirements. * Proficiency with CM PRO configuration management tool (required); familiarity with MCSC SETR processes preferred. Professional Requirements, Skills & Tools * Deep technical expertise in electro-optical systems engineering; committed to continuous professional development in emerging optics and photonics technologies; represents Catalyst Solutions with professionalism and integrity in all Government client interactions. * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to evaluate complex electro-optical performance data, manage competing technical priorities across multiple concurrent programs, and communicate findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. * Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, SharePoint, Outlook) and Microsoft Project; experienced with CM PRO and DoD technical review tools; ability to rapidly learn new Government databases and electro-optical test systems. ## Description * Provide senior-level electro-optical systems engineering support across Combat Optics Team programs including Squad Binocular Night Vision Goggles (SBNVG), Squad Aiming Laser (SAL), Handheld Observation Targeting Night System/Long Range Thermal (HOtNS/LRT), General Purpose Machine Gun Optic (GPMGO), and Future Grenade Launcher Sight (FGLS) through all applicable acquisition phases. * Draft and update systems engineering documentation including Systems Engineering Plans, Test and Evaluation Master Plans, Configuration Management Plans, Performance Specifications, Requirement Traceability Matrices, Technical Data Packages, and PESHE/ESOH documentation in support of program milestones. * Provide on-site technical support to the Electro-Optic Support Facility (EOSF) at MCSC Quantico, conducting testing, surveillance, troubleshooting, and maintenance of day optic, image intensification, laser, and thermal imaging systems; maintain inventory accountability and ensure SOPs are current. * Develop test plans and support test and evaluation events including Limited User Evaluations, Performance Verification Testing, First Article Testing, and Technical Manual Validation and Verification; prepare test reports and analyze results for electro-optical performance parameters. * Support all Systems Engineering and Technical Reviews (SETRs); prepare briefs, capture meeting minutes, prepare Summary Reports, Close Out memos, and Technical Review Action Plans; manage program documentation using the CM PRO configuration management tool. * Manage the PdM IW Risk Registry for assigned Combat Optics programs; participate in monthly Risk Management Boards, consolidate risk artifacts across programs, and brief the PdM on current risk posture and mitigation strategies. * Assist in Configuration Management activities for assigned programs, maintaining and updating the CM database in CM PRO and supporting physical configuration audits and technical data package reviews. * Develop and maintain the PdM IW Research and Development Roadmap for combat optics; conduct technical analysis of emerging electro-optical technologies and produce technical analysis papers evaluating capabilities, engineering trade-offs, and future development opportunities for the infantry optics portfolio. * Support life cycle logistics activities as required, including development of training materials, technical publications, and validation and verification documentation for assigned Combat Optics programs. ## Related Videos - [Developing the Rich Text Editor for DeepL.com](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1172-developing-the-rich-text-editor-for-deepl-com) - [Are Classical Automation Frameworks Dead? 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