Seeking a mid-level Systems Engineer for a full-time position, contingent on program approval. The level of effort is 100% (1 FTE), with time dedicated to applying systems and mission engineering principles for development of advanced defense and space systems.

Position Requirements:

Direct technical knowledge in specialized national security domains such as space operations, missile defense, long-range fires, or related strategic capabilities. Understanding of operational concepts, system architectures, and emerging technologies supporting advanced defense missions.
Demonstrated systems engineering expertise with systematic, top-down approaches to designing and developing complex systems with a focus on translating operational needs into specific technical requirements.
Experience employing mission engineering methodologies to identify and analyze critical capability gaps.
Development and management of technology roadmaps, including planning for the development and integration of new technologies to meet future operational needs
Knowledge of the entire lifecycle of R&D projects, from concept to delivery, in a fast-paced environment
Experience operating in fast-paced environments that emphasize rapid prototyping, iterative development, and accelerated capability delivery.
Demonstrated ability to coordinate and lead technical efforts across diverse stakeholders including government organizations, military services, national laboratories, and industry partners to develop and field advanced capabilities.

Additional Details:

Work Location: On-site at the client site in Arlington, VA.

Clearance Requirement: Active TS/SCI

Salary range for the position is $150,000 - $250,000 per year. Specific compensation will be determined by several factors including experience, education, skills, and knowledge. We also offer medical/dental/vision benefits and 401k contribution.

Blue Sky Innovators, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you are a qualified job seeker with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access http://www.blueskyinnovators.com as a result of your disability. To request an accommodation, please email us at [email protected] and provide your name and contact information. Please note: this is only for job seekers with disabilities requesting an accommodation.

About the company

Blue Sky Innovators provides advanced technology and operational support to DoD and Intelligence Community clients, offering AI/ML data analysis, cybersecurity, and systems integration, along with internal R&D to turn new technologies into usable capabilities. It delivers professional services, SETA and acquisition support, and program control to solve complex defense challenges and advance operational capabilities. The company differentiates itself with a defense-led leadership team, a workforce rich in military veterans and TS/SCI clearance, and significant in-house R&D that supports DARPA, the Navy, and other defense programs. Its goal is to deliver practical, field-ready technologies and specialized support that help DoD and IC programs succeed by turning research into deployed solutions.

Company Size

51-200

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Reston, Virginia

Founded

N/A

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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

LinkedIn shows 51-200 employees in 2026, signaling ongoing demand and scaling.
Blue Sky Innovators won the 2026 AI Summit Best Technology award for SkyEye.
A March 2026 Air Force delivery order added $4.5 million through March 2027.

What critics are saying

Blue Sky Innovators depends on DoD and Space Force contract timing, not recurring software revenue.
BSI’s $74,996.41 SpaceWERX award is tiny versus sustainment needs and hiring costs.
A failed Phase II for SKYWAVE would leave IRAD sunk and differentiation weakened.

What makes Blue Sky Innovators unique

Blue Sky Innovators won SpaceWERX SBIR Phase I for SKYWAVE in July 2026.
SKYWAVE combines proprietary RFML with RF fingerprinting for space-domain awareness.
BSI landed MDA SHIELD IDIQ access in December 2025, spanning 10 years.

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Benefits

Health Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Remote Work Options
Paid Vacation
Flexible Work Hours
Wellness Program
Mental Health Support
Telephone/Internet stipend
Phone/Internet Stipend
Home Office Stipend
Conference Attendance Budget
Professional Development Budget

Blue Sky Innovators

Space Systems Engineer

About the job