Principal Systems Engineer - ISR SME

OverviewPrincipal Systems Engineer - ISR SME at QinetiQ US. We are a world-class team delivering next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems across 50+ locations. Our work includes sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, AI/ML, and augmented reality. We support protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies, and partner with customers to save lives, reduce risk, and maintain critical global infrastructure.Why join QinetiQ US? We offer a unique environment where diverse perspectives, disciplines, and technologies come together to solve complex problems. Our inclusive culture emphasizes authenticity, respect, flexibility, and a focus on health, well-being, and personal and professional growth.Position OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Principal Systems Engineer with ISR expertise to serve as the primary technical interface and oversight authority for ISR subsystems within the Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) system. The ISR capabilities are delivered by a subcontractor as part of the integrated sensor payload on a 420K strategic aerostat platform. The role focuses on technical oversight, contractor management, and serving as the internal technical authority to evaluate contractor deliverables, challenge technical approaches, and bridge knowledge gaps for the broader engineering team.ResponsibilitiesSubcontractor Technical OversightLead technical point of contact with the ISR subcontractor for all IPT mattersReview and assess contractor deliverables including ISR system architectures, sensor integration designs, data processing algorithms, ICDs, test plans, results, and documentationQuestion contractor approaches, assumptions, and deliverables using deep ISR expertiseIdentify technical risks in contractor proposals and work products that may impact ASRR ISR performance, cost, schedule, or intelligence collection effectivenessTechnical Resource and Knowledge BridgeAct as internal ISR technical authority, guiding program management and engineering teamsIdentify and communicate knowledge gaps between contractor deliverables and ISR operational requirementsTranslate complex ISR concepts for non-specialist stakeholdersProvide technical recommendations to program leadership on ISR contractor decisionsIPT and TIM ParticipationRepresent the prime contractor’s technical position in TIMs on ISR subsystem mattersEvaluate contractor positions and advise on acceptance or rejection of approachesCoordinate interfaces between ISR sensors and other ASRR subsystems (aerostat platform, ELINT, communications, ground processing)Contractor Deliverable ManagementEvaluate ISR documentation for technical accuracy and contract complianceReview and approve Interface Control Documents for ISR integration and data fusionAssess ISR test plans and results to verify sensor performance and intelligence product generationEnsure deliverables meet military standards and intelligence community protocolsTechnical Problem ResolutionLead investigations when ISR contractor deliverables underperformAssess proposed solutions for viability and impactProvide independent judgment on contractor approaches and determine when program intervention is neededProgram Technical SupportEnsure contractor understanding of ISR requirements within the ASRR contextMonitor progress on ISR sensor integration and cross-cueing with other systemsEvaluate performance against contract requirements and operational needsProvide regular technical status reports on ISR contractor performance and issuesRequired QualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related STEM fieldExperience: Minimum 14 years in ISR systems engineering, intelligence collection systems, or surveillance systems; experience managing or overseeing technical subcontractors on complex ISR programs; hands-on with multi-sensor ISR systems, sensor fusion, and intelligence product generation; experience as technical authority interfacing with program management and customersTechnical Expertise: Understanding of ISR system design, collection techniques, processing algorithms, and operational limitations; multi-sensor integration, data fusion, cross-cueing; experience with EO/IR, SAR, MTI, and other ISR sensor technologies; knowledge of intelligence requirements and disseminationCritical Skills: Ability to make sound technical decisions in ambiguity; excellent communication of complex ISR concepts to diverse audiences; proven ability to identify flaws or issues; experience with classified ISR requirements and security protocolsSpecialized Knowledge: Sensor technologies (EO/IR, radar), real-time data processing, exploitation workflows, platform integration challenges (power, cooling, data bandwidth, pointing); understanding of ISR customer needs and deploymentTools and Standards: Experience with SE lifecycle tools (Innoslate MBSE, Cameo, DOORS Next); familiarity with MIL-STD/MIL-PRF and ISR compliance; experience with contractor review processes for classified systemsAdditional Requirements: Eligible for U.S. government security clearance (Secret minimum) or current clearance; travel as needed for site visits and reviews; ability to assess technically independent of contractor influence; FMS and international ISR program experience desirable; defense contractor management experience on classified programs preferredCompany EEO StatementQinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other legally protected status. Accessibility/Accommodation: if you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, email or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4.Seniority level: Mid-Senior levelEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: Information TechnologyIndustries: Defense and Space Manufacturing #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17