System Engineer Level 2

Fort Meade, MD
Full Time
Cybersecurity and Engineering Operations
Mid Level
System Engineer Level 2
Position Summary
DarkStar Intelligence is seeking a System Engineer Level 2 for a position at Fort Meade, MD with an active Top Secret/SCI clearance and Full-Scope Polygraph (CCA acceptable). This critical role supports NSM-8 implementation, vulnerability identification, and alerting for the Department of Defense (DoD) and National Security Systems (NSS) in areas such as cross-domain solutions, incident reporting, encryption, zero-trust cloud policy development, customer outreach, and coordination. The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of seven years of systems engineering experience, with expertise in zero-trust architecture, data protection, and guiding the design and development of complex systems. This role involves engaging in mission-critical projects, contributing to national security, and collaborating within a dynamic team environment. Limited telework opportunities are available.

Location: Fort Meade, MD 
Schedule (FT/PT): Full-Time
Travel Required: No
Shift: Day
Remote Type: Limited
Security Clearance: Current TS/SCI
Polygraph: Fullscope Polygraph (CCA Accepted)

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Analyze user requirements, concepts of operations documents, and high-level system architectures to develop system requirements specifications.
  • Lead the analysis of system requirements, design, and development activities, guiding users in formulating requirements and evaluating alternative approaches through feasibility studies.
  • Provide technical leadership for integrating requirements, design, and technology, ensuring successful implementation of system solutions.
  • Incorporate new plans, designs, and systems into ongoing operations and develop technical documentation to support system engineering activities.
  • Develop and maintain system architecture and system design documentation, including System Engineering Plans, Interface Control Documents, and Requirements Specifications.
  • Guide system development and implementation planning by preparing System Engineering Management Plans and System Integration and Test Plans.
  • Manage system requirements to ensure compatibility with defined system architectures, such as DoDAF.
  • Interact with the Government regarding systems engineering technical considerations and associated issues, conflicts, or concerns.
  • Serve as the ultimate authority for the technical integrity of work performed and the deliverables associated with systems engineering responsibilities.
  • Contribute to developing operational concepts and scenarios, describing interactions between systems, users, and environments, while emphasizing operational, maintenance, and support needs.
  • Support DoD Certification/Accreditation processes and ensure compliance with relevant security and protection standards.
  • Ensure the integration of data protection products within a zero-trust enterprise and compliance with encryption and security standards.
  • Coordinate with stakeholders to manage system baselines, interface designs, and change control processes.
  • Assess and manage risks, plan verification efforts for new designs, and prepare timeline analysis diagrams.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Current TS/SCI + Full Scope Polygraph. In-scope counterintelligence polygraphs will be accepted, and personnel with a current CI polygraph will be considered for contract roles requiring a full-scope polygraph if they possess a Conditional Certification of Access (CCA), pending successful completion and adjudication of a full-scope polygraph.
  • Fourteen (14) years as a Systems Engineer on similar contracts and programs.
  • Education:
    • Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering Science, Engineering Management, or a related discipline.
    • Five (5) additional years of Systems Engineering experience may substitute for a bachelor’s degree.

Specialized Skills:
  • Expertise in data protection and integration of solutions within a zero-trust enterprise environment.
  • Knowledge of cross-domain solutions, encryption technologies, and zero-trust cloud policy frameworks.
  • Strong background in incident reporting, risk management, and compliance with DoD/NSS standards.
  • Proven ability to lead users in requirements formulation and system development, offering alternative approaches and conducting feasibility studies.
  • Advanced knowledge in preparing and executing system engineering management plans and system integration/test plans.
Salary Range:
$155,000 - $175,000
This pay range is a general guideline and not a guarantee of specific compensation or salary. When extending an offer, DarkStar Intelligence considers various factors, including (but not limited to) the job's responsibilities, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, market data alignment, applicable bargaining agreements (if any), and other relevant laws.

About DarkStar Intelligence

DarkStar Intelligence is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) committed to advancing national security through mission support and tradecraft development. We prioritize both client satisfaction and employee retention, delivering high-quality, intelligence-based solutions grounded in our “Core Four” values:

  • Humility: We place mission success above personal recognition.
  • Passion: We bring enthusiasm and dedication to every challenge.
  • Agility: We adapt quickly to evolving operational needs.
  • Ownership: We hold ourselves accountable for results and uphold the highest standards of excellence.

We are mission-driven and results-oriented, striving to make our country safer through every task we undertake.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Commitment

At DarkStar Intelligence LLC, we are committed to maintaining a professional and legally compliant work environment where individuals are treated with respect and fairness. We adhere strictly to all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations.

Employment decisions at DarkStar are made solely on the basis of individual qualifications, performance, and business needs. We prohibit discrimination in all aspects of employment—including hiring, compensation, promotion, training, discipline, and termination—on the basis of: Race or color, Religion, Sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), National origin, Age, Disability, Genetic information, Veteran status. Or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law

Our EEO standards are embedded in all employment practices to ensure compliance, fairness, and accountability. We enforce a zero-tolerance policy for unlawful discrimination or harassment and encourage employees to report concerns without fear of retaliation.

EEO Flyer: shorturl.at/abpNX

Employee Benefits

DarkStar Intelligence provides a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to support the health, financial stability, and personal well-being of our team members.

Core Benefits for employees:

  • Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans
  • Income Protection: Life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan with employer contributions
  • Work-Life Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and legal services
  • Paid Leave: Generous PTO, 11 paid federal holidays, and one floating holiday

Voluntary Benefits:

  • Legal & Identity Protection: LegalShield and IDShield
  • Additional Insurance: Whole life, accident, and critical care coverage

We believe in recognizing and supporting the professionals who make our mission possible. Your well-being is an investment in our collective success.

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