Senior Contracts Systems Engineer

Join a mission driven satellite program at the forefront of national defense innovation. Our team is developing cutting edge technologies that directly support critical Department of War priorities, combining both proven and first-of-their-kind capabilities that have never been applied in space. Operating within a fast-paced acquisition environment, we benefit from streamlined authorities and direct access to senior Government decisionmakers, enabling us to move quickly and execute aggressive schedules using the most innovative contracting strategies available.

SAIC is seeking self-directed leaders who skillfully navigate ambiguity, solve complex challenges, and bring diverse expertise to a dynamic environment focused on delivering capability rapidly. Success here requires adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to wear multiple hats in support of a high impact mission. Candidates experienced as USAF/USSF acquisition officers (AFSC: 63A) or developmental engineers (AFSC: 62E) leading satellite programs in the USSF (SSC), NRO, or SDA, applying the full range of the systems engineering discipline (e.g., Requirements Development, Architecture, SE milestones: SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.), and/or DAWIA/PMI Program Management will be especially well-prepared to excel.

Job Description:

This position is for a Senior Contracts Systems Engineer in Chantilly, VA supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Senior Contracts Systems Engineer serves as a key partner to Government program leadership providing acquisition, contract administration, and compliance support for the Inner Harbor contract. This role supports contract actions from planning through closeout and requires strong independent judgment and experience supporting complex federal acquisitions. The position is integrated into the Government-led Program Office team requiring full-time on-site work.

Job Responsibilities:

• Function as a trusted acquisition advisor to Government and Program staff.
• Lead preparation of complete contract packages including requirements validation, funding documentation coordination, and acquisition strategy alignment.
• Develop, coordinate, and maintain pre-award documents such as Acquisition Plans, Justification & Approvals, Source Selection Plans, and RFP packages.
• Support execution of contract awards and modifications, ensuring accuracy of clauses, pricing structures, schedules, and deliverables.
• Conduct detailed cost/price analysis, evaluate proposals, support development of negotiation positions, and participate in negotiation discussions.
• Oversee post award contract administration including invoice review, discrepancy resolution, schedule monitoring, and performance compliance.
• Maintain comprehensive contract documentation, track contract actions, and ensure timely processing of contractual deliverables.
• Interface with program management, budget, technical teams, and legal to ensure aligned and compliant contract execution.
• Monitor changes in acquisition policy and ensure contract actions remain compliant with the FAR and DFARS.
• Develop, prepare, and present contract related reports, status briefings, and decision packages to senior leadership.
• Oversee project cost control activities, including actual cost analysis, variance reporting, trend identification, and performance assessments.

TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelors and fourteen (14) years or more experience; Masters and twelve (12) years or more experience.

• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to be effective in a government/contractor team environment.

• Experience with Intelligence Community or DoD contracting.
• Deep knowledge of FAR/DFARS, and EPX Studio.
• Experience with source selections and contract negotiations.
• Experience in Space Launch contracting, including mission unique requirements, launch services procurement, or support to launch enterprise acquisition activities.

• Ability to work in a very dynamic environment and effectively interact with numerous DOD, military/civilian personnel and industry partners.

• Ability to communicate with a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise.

• Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.

• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.

• TS/SCI required.

• Previous SAP experience desired.