Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA, Inc. High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and resourceful Lead Systems Engineer to support transitioning innovative R&D technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to operation.

The ideal candidate for Lead Systems Engineer will be passionate about orchestrating complex systems and ensuring seamless integration. This role will require working behind the scenes to guide teams through structured methodologies and ensure comprehensive documentation throughout the system development lifecycle. The Lead Systems Engineer will develop requirements, write system and subsystem specifications, develop architectures, write technical reports, and support a multi-disciplinary engineering team. The Lead Systems Engineer plays a crucial role in ensuring the reliability, performance, and cost-effectiveness of our electrical mechanical systems while managing project risks and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Core Responsibilities:

• Serve as the driving force behind the implementation of robust system engineering processes across ongoing and future programs
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (electrical, mechanical, firmware, and software) to understand project requirements and translate them into actionable plans and documentation
• Generate and maintain essential system engineering artifacts, such as WBS, IMS, RTVM, SEP, and Risk Registers
  1. Work Breakdown Structure (WBS):
     • Develop and maintain a comprehensive WBS to break down the system engineering effort into manageable components and tasks
     • Ensure the WBS accurately captures all necessary work packages, deliverables, and milestones
     • Use the WBS as a framework for project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation
  2. Integrated Master Schedule (IMS):
     • Create and maintain an IMS that integrates the schedules of all project components and stakeholders
     • Identify critical path activities and dependencies to ensure timely project completion
     • Use the IMS to monitor progress, identify potential schedule risks, and implement necessary corrective actions
  3. Requirements Traceability Verification Matrix (RTVM):
     • Develop and maintain an RTVM to map system requirements to design elements, test cases, and verification methods
     • Ensure traceability of requirements throughout the system engineering lifecycle
     • Use the RTVM to verify that all requirements have been properly addressed and tested
  4. Systems Engineering Plan (SEP):
     • Develop a comprehensive SEP that outlines the systems engineering processes, methodologies, and standards to be followed
     • Define roles, responsibilities, and communication protocols for the systems engineering team
     • Ensure the SEP aligns with industry best practices and organizational policies
  5. Risk Registers:
     • Identify, analyze, and document potential risks that may impact the system engineering effort
     • Assess the likelihood and impact of each risk, and develop appropriate mitigation strategies
     • Maintain risk registers to track and monitor identified risks throughout the project lifecycle
     • Regularly review and update risk registers, implementing mitigation actions as needed
• Oversee the integration of hardware, software, and network components, ensuring compliance with specifications and industry best practices
• Facilitate cross-functional communication and coordination, acting as a liaison between teams to ensure alignment and cohesion
• Continuously evaluate and refine processes, identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing more efficient methodologies
• Assist with / lead defining and executing test plans for electrical systems, ensuring adherence to specifications and requirements
• Coordinate with manufacturing teams to ensure seamless transition from design to production

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a technical discipline such as system engineering, engineering program management, electrical / mechanical engineering, or physics
• 3 - 10 years professional experience in systems engineering for government contracts
• Ability to obtain and maintain TS security clearance
• US Citizenship is required
• Yearly travel (CONUS): 5% - 20%
• A seasoned professional with a deep understanding of systems engineering principles and a strong command of industry deliverables, including WBS (Work Breakdown Structure), IMS (Integrated Master Schedule), RTVM (Requirements Traceability Verification Matrix), SEP (System Engineering Plan), and Risk Registers/Risk Management
• Proficiency with project management software and tools (e.g., Microsoft Project)
• Familiarity with risk management frameworks
• Hands-on experience with generating comprehensive documentation, writing detailed process narratives, and justifying design decisions
• The ability to transition between acting as: a project manager, tracking the progress of cross-functional teams, and ensuring their seamless integration into a cohesive system
• A true advocate for structured engineering processes, with a passion for guiding teams through the intricacies of brainstorming, prototyping, delivering, and documenting
• Knowledge of mechatronics and electromechanical system design
• Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated
• May require light physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 5 pounds

Preferred Qualifications:

• Active DoD Top Secret Clearance
• Experience working in the defense industry
• Master’s degree or higher in a technical discipline such as system engineering, engineering program management, electrical / mechanical engineering, or physics

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Salary Range: $80,000 – 120,000 DOE

Application Deadline: May 13, 2024

U.S. citizenship is required for most positions. (www.SARA.com)

SARA, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SARA, Inc. is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Applicants wishing to view a copy of SARA Inc.’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should notify the Human Resources Department at (719) 302-3117.

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Salary: $80,000.00