Government contracts require robust, scalable, and secure IT and operational systems to support critical missions. Systems Engineers play a crucial role in designing, integrating, and maintaining complex systems that meet government specifications and regulatory requirements.

What does a Systems Engineer do on Government Contracts?

A Systems Engineer on government contracts ensures that IT, software, and hardware systems function cohesively to support government agencies. Their responsibilities include:

System Design & Integration: Developing and implementing IT and engineering solutions that align with government requirements.
Security & Compliance: Ensuring systems meet federal cybersecurity regulations such as NIST 800-53, FISMA, and FedRAMP.
Performance Optimization: Assessing system performance and implementing improvements for efficiency and security.
Risk Management: Identifying vulnerabilities and implementing mitigation strategies.
Collaboration with Teams: Working with project managers, developers, cybersecurity specialists, and government stakeholders to ensure successful system deployment.

Systems Engineer Job Description

A Systems Engineer on a government contract is responsible for designing, integrating, and managing IT and engineering systems to ensure they meet government agency needs. Their duties include:

Developing and implementing complex system architectures.
Conducting system analysis and troubleshooting to ensure performance and security.
Managing system upgrades and integration efforts.
Ensuring compliance with government cybersecurity policies and best practices.
Working with cross-functional teams to define system requirements and solutions.

Job Requirements for a Systems Engineer

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Expertise in systems engineering methodologies and lifecycle processes.
Strong understanding of IT infrastructure, networking, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
Knowledge of compliance frameworks such as NIST, FISMA, and FedRAMP.
Experience with system modeling tools and enterprise architecture frameworks.
Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.

Educational Background and Experience:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
5-10 years of experience in systems engineering, preferably in a government or defense environment.
Certifications such as INCOSE Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP), CISSP, or AWS Certified Solutions Architect are preferred.

Workspace/Physical Requirements:

Office-based, with potential remote work depending on security requirements.
May require travel to government sites for system implementation and support.
Security clearance (Secret, Top Secret, or higher) may be required.

What does a typical job posting look like for a Systems Engineer?

Job Posting Example:

“We are seeking a highly skilled Systems Engineer to support government contracts by designing, integrating, and maintaining secure and efficient IT and engineering systems. The ideal candidate will have expertise in system architecture, cybersecurity, and compliance with federal regulations.”

Essential Job Functions:

Develop, implement, and maintain government IT and engineering systems.
Ensure compliance with government security and performance standards.
Optimize system performance and conduct risk assessments.
Support system integration efforts and troubleshoot technical issues.
Collaborate with engineering, security, and operations teams to meet project goals.

Salary Range

The salary for a Systems Engineer working on government contracts typically ranges from $95,000 to $160,000 per year, depending on experience, certifications, and security clearance level.