Payload Operations Systems Engineer - TS/SCI with CI Poly {D} (Finance)

ARKA Group L.P. ("ARKA") is an advanced technologies company serving the U.S. military, intelligence community, and commercial space industry delivering next-generation solutions to support the national security space enterprise. Built on more than six decades of excellence, ARKA brings modern approaches and a culture of innovation to the challenges of today.

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Position Overview:

We are seeking a Payload Operations Systems Engineer to support a critical National Security Program. The successful candidate will join a high-performing team of government and contractor professionals supporting continuous operations in a fast-paced environment focused on advancing the customer's space warfighting mission.

As a Payload Operations Systems Engineer, the candidate will provide integrated assessment and tracking of ongoing operations to assist the government and partner operations team. This role demands close coordination with internal and external stakeholders, along with routine development of mission-focused analysis and operational communication.

Our team is cohesive, collaborative, and mission focused. We are regularly tasked with developing operational solutions for unique and unprecedented mission objectives. Operators will train on, operate, and refine processes for advanced tools while also supporting requirements development for future capabilities.

We are looking for an individual who proactively identifies issues, proposes innovative solutions, and helps implement continuous improvements. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic and evolving operational environment, demonstrates exceptional initiative, exhibits excellent communication skills, maintains composure under pressure, and is motivated to grow into leadership or specialized roles within the program.

This position supports 24x7 operations and requires on-call work.

This position is an on-site position located in Danbury, CT.

We offer generous relocation benefits for eligible candidates. Candidates may also be considered for sign on bonuses consistent with skills and experience levels.

Responsibilities:

• Draft and disseminate Operations Reports
• Report on any significant events to both internal and external stakeholders
• Track mission activities and operational developments using advanced monitoring tools
• Summarize and relay updates to government customers in real-time, ensuring that decision-makers have access to the most relevant and accurate information to guide mission-critical decisions
• Provide support to real-world application exercises
• Develop and utilize simulation and image analysis tools to analyze satellite operations and predict system behavior under various scenarios
• Provide critical assistance during satellite launch and early orbit operations by contributing technical expertise, operational insights, and real-time support, as required
• Address any challenges or risks impacting mission success
• Provide detailed inputs for monthly reports
• Support onboarding of new and enhanced tools

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree and minimum 4 years of prior relevant experience OR a master's degree and 2 years of prior relevant experience working on satellite systems
• At least one year of proven experience delivering daily stand-up operational briefings to senior stakeholders and mission partners
• US Citizen or Permanent Resident Card Holder
• Active Top Secret/SCI with CI Poly clearance required
• Ability to concisely and accurately summarize mission ops and significant events to all stakeholders
• Demonstrated excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Aptitude to proactively identify issues and lead the problem-solving process

Preferred Qualifications:

• EO/IR sensor competency
• Mission planning experience
• SocetGXP or ENVI expertise
• Ability to work in a cross-functional environment
• MATLAB literacy
• Root cause analysis and nonconformance tracking

Location: Danbury, CT

Located in beautiful Fairfield County, Danbury offers a diverse economy, wonderful parks, cultural attractions, an impressive mix of private and public educational institutions and a vibrant arts scene. Our facility is nestled among a remarkable selection of communities to call home all with varying price points to fit many different budgets. We're close to New York City, Boston, and other major cities - great for day trips and weekend getaways. Our lovely seasons along with award-winning institutions, colleges, cultural events, and a genuine sense of community brings a diverse population to the beautiful state of Connecticut!

What We Offer:

• Comprehensive medical/vision/dental insurance packages
• Company contributions to qualified HSA accounts
• 401k retirement plan with industry leading company contributions
• 3 weeks of vacation accrual per year plus time off for sick leave and unscheduled life events
• 13 paid holidays
• Upfront tuition assistance for approved degree programs
• Annual bonus program based on company and employee performance
• Company paid life insurance, AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term disability insurance
• 4 weeks paid Parental Leave
• Employee assistance program (EAP)

EHS/Environmental Requirements:

This job operates in a professional office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee routinely is required to use hands to keyboard, communicate, listen to, and interpret instructions and remain stationary for extended periods of the time. This would require the ability to move around the campus and occasionally move/lift items weighing up to 25 lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

ITC & Security Clearance Requirements:

An active TS/SCI with CI Poly security clearance.

Visa Restrictions:

No visa sponsorship is available for this position.

Pre-employment Screenings:

Employment with any ARKA companies in the U.S. is contingent upon satisfactory completion of several pre-employment requirements to include a credit check, background check, and drug screen.