Associate Systems Engineer at Boeing

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate Systems Engineer
Company: The Boeing Company
Location: Springfield, Virginia, United States
Job Type: On-site
Category: Systems Engineering
Date Posted: June 11, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Serve as a focal point for ensuring spacecraft safety of flight and coordination between contractor and government operations teams.
Support daily operations in the end-to-end technical management of a spacecraft mission.
Provide on-site operational support and oversight, and implementation guidance for safe mission operations and special test activities.
Ensure long-term activities are planned and coordinated across a wide community of government and civilian spacecraft.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in space systems engineering and a deep understanding of spacecraft operations. Familiarity with rapid prototyping, mission-focused technologies, and working with proprietary customers is beneficial.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Vehicle Subsystem Functionality: Provide daily oversight of vehicle subsystem functionality and ensure smooth operation.
Technical Issue Resolution: Resolve cross-functional technical issues that arise during mission operations.
Operational Support: Support daily operations, including factory and customer requests, and implementation of Boeing Factory Recommendations.
Documentation and Reporting: Author and update various types of documentation, maintain vehicle databases, and provide weekly and monthly status reports on vehicle performance.
Anomaly Resolution: Support anomaly resolution from the system perspective and contribute to memogram development.
Calibration and Testing: Support calibration activities and special systems engineering tests as required.
Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with local and factory experts, and coordinate implementation of Boeing Factory Recommendations.
Safety and Security: Ensure spacecraft safety of flight and coordinate with operations teams to maintain mission security.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a high-intensity, dynamic environment. Familiarity with spacecraft systems, operational procedures, and relevant software tools is essential.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering, engineering technology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, data science, or computer science.

Experience: 2+ years of experience in space systems, with a focus on spacecraft operations, mission management, or a related field.

Required Skills:

Proficiency in space systems engineering and spacecraft operations.
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Ability to work effectively in a high-intensity, dynamic environment.
Familiarity with relevant software tools, such as Perl, Python, Matlab, Excel/VBA, etc.
Knowledge of orbital mechanics and collision avoidance maneuver planning.
Understanding of RF engineering and de-confliction analysis.

Preferred Skills:

Prior military service or experience in national space programs.
Experience working directly with aerospace vehicles.
Familiarity with laser or optical engineering/analysis and/or nuclear effects and impacts to space assets.
Experience with RF interference, spectrum protection, and mitigation planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, candidates with experience in mission operations, anomaly resolution, and spacecraft systems are strongly encouraged to apply. Familiarity with relevant software tools and programming languages is highly desirable.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate experience in space systems engineering, mission operations, and anomaly resolution through relevant projects and case studies.
Showcase proficiency in relevant software tools, programming languages, and spacecraft systems through code samples, scripts, and documentation.
Highlight any experience with rapid prototyping, mission-focused technologies, or working with proprietary customers.

Technical Documentation:

Provide examples of technical documentation, such as operational procedures, memograms, and workarounds.
Demonstrate ability to create clear, concise, and well-organized technical documentation that effectively communicates complex information.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The summary pay range for this position is $87,550 - $118,450 per year. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, and market conditions.

Benefits:

Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision plans for employees and their families.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Health Savings Accounts: Tax-advantaged savings accounts for healthcare expenses.
Retirement Savings Plans: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.
Life Insurance: Company-paid life insurance and optional additional coverage.
Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

Working Hours: This position requires a standard workweek of 40 hours, with the possibility of on-call duties during times outside of nominal business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the salary range provided is a starting point, actual compensation may vary based on factors such as experience, skills, and market conditions. Research has shown that the median salary for a mid-level systems engineer in the aerospace industry is around $95,000 per year, with a range of $80,000 to $120,000, depending on factors such as location, experience, and company size.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The Boeing Company operates in the aerospace and defense industry, with a focus on commercial airplanes, defense, space, and security solutions.

Company Size: Boeing is a large, multinational corporation with over 140,000 employees worldwide. This size allows for significant resources and opportunities for career growth and development.

Founded: The Boeing Company was founded in 1916 and has a rich history in the aerospace and defense industry.

Team Structure:

The Space and Launch Team is part of the Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS) business unit.
The team focuses on rapid prototyping and demonstration of mission-focused technologies for proprietary customers.
The team works closely with other Boeing divisions, as well as government and civilian spacecraft operations teams.

Development Methodology:

The team employs Agile methodologies, with a focus on rapid prototyping, iteration, and continuous improvement.
Collaboration and cross-functional integration are key aspects of the team's development process.
The team uses tools such as JIRA, Confluence, and Git for project management, documentation, and version control.

Company Website: The Boeing Company

📝 Enhancement Note: Boeing's culture is characterized by a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. The company values diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance, and offers numerous opportunities for professional development and growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: This role is at the mid-level (2-5 years of experience) within the systems engineering career path. It provides an opportunity to gain experience in spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution.

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Space and Launch Team lead and works closely with other team members, as well as local and factory experts.

Technical Impact: The Associate Systems Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and successful operation of spacecraft missions. This role has a significant impact on mission outcomes and user experience.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Gain experience in spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution, as well as exposure to emerging technologies and rapid prototyping methodologies.
Leadership Potential: Develop leadership skills through mentoring, coaching, and team management opportunities within the Space and Launch Team and across the broader BDS business unit.
Architecture Decision-Making: Contribute to architecture decisions related to spacecraft systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution, and gain experience in designing and implementing complex, mission-critical systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Boeing offers numerous opportunities for career growth and development, with a strong focus on internal promotions and transfers. The company's size and diverse portfolio of products and services provide ample opportunities for employees to gain experience in new areas and advance their careers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The Boeing Company's Springfield, Virginia office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate innovation and teamwork.

Office Location(s): The Springfield, Virginia office is located at 7360 Warehouse Lane, Springfield, VA 22150.

Workspace Context:

The office features open-plan workspaces, collaborative areas, and state-of-the-art technology infrastructure.
Employees have access to multiple monitors, testing devices, and relevant software tools to support their work.
The office fosters a culture of collaboration and cross-functional integration, with regular team meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and social events.

Work Schedule: This position requires a standard workweek of 40 hours, with the possibility of on-call duties during times outside of nominal business hours. The work schedule is flexible and accommodates the dynamic nature of spacecraft operations and mission management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Boeing's work environment is designed to support the needs of its employees and promote a healthy work-life balance. The company offers numerous benefits and resources to support the well-being and professional development of its employees.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone or video call to assess communication skills, technical proficiency, and cultural fit.
Technical Assessment: A hands-on technical assessment, focusing on spacecraft systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution. This may include coding challenges, system design exercises, or case studies.
Behavioral Interview: An in-depth interview to assess problem-solving skills, communication, and collaboration abilities, as well as cultural fit and motivation.
Final Review: A final review of the candidate's qualifications, technical skills, and cultural fit by the hiring manager and other stakeholders.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight relevant projects and case studies that demonstrate experience in spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution.
Include examples of technical documentation, such as operational procedures, memograms, and workarounds, to showcase strong communication skills and attention to detail.
Emphasize any experience with rapid prototyping, mission-focused technologies, or working with proprietary customers.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on spacecraft systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution concepts and techniques.
Familiarize yourself with relevant software tools, programming languages, and spacecraft systems.
Practice problem-solving skills and develop a strong understanding of spacecraft systems and mission operations.

ATS Keywords: Space Systems Engineering, Spacecraft Operations, Mission Management, Anomaly Resolution, Rapid Prototyping, Programming Languages, Software Tools, Problem-Solving, Communication, Collaboration, Leadership, Architecture Decision-Making, Aerospace Vehicles, Proprietary Customers, Emerging Technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit within the Space and Launch Team. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong background in spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution, as well as excellent communication and collaboration skills.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Spacecraft Systems:

Familiarity with spacecraft systems, including propulsion, attitude control, communication, power, and thermal control systems.
Experience with spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution.
Knowledge of spacecraft subsystems, including payloads, sensors, and other specialized systems.

Mission Operations:

Experience with mission operations, including launch, orbit insertion, commissioning, and on-orbit operations.
Familiarity with mission operations concepts, such as orbital mechanics, collision avoidance maneuver planning, and satellite orbit operations analysis.
Knowledge of mission operations software tools, such as mission control systems, ground stations, and telemetry processing systems.

Anomaly Resolution:

Experience with anomaly resolution, including troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of spacecraft systems.
Familiarity with anomaly resolution techniques, such as fault tree analysis, root cause analysis, and corrective and preventive action planning.
Knowledge of anomaly resolution software tools, such as diagnostic tools, simulation tools, and data analysis tools.

Relevant Software Tools:

Programming Languages: Proficiency in one or more programming languages, such as Python, Perl, Matlab, or C/C++.
Data Analysis Tools: Familiarity with data analysis tools, such as Excel/VBA, R, or Python libraries (e.g., NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib).
Version Control Systems: Experience with version control systems, such as Git, SVN, or Perforce.
Project Management Tools: Familiarity with project management tools, such as JIRA, Confluence, or Microsoft Project.
Collaboration Tools: Experience with collaboration tools, such as Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, or Slack.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is focused on spacecraft systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution. Familiarity with relevant software tools, programming languages, and spacecraft systems is essential for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

Innovation: Boeing values innovation and encourages its employees to think creatively and challenge the status quo.
Collaboration: Boeing fosters a culture of collaboration and teamwork, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional integration and knowledge-sharing.
Continuous Learning: Boeing supports the professional development and growth of its employees, with numerous opportunities for training, mentoring, and skill-building.
Diversity and Inclusion: Boeing values diversity and inclusion and strives to create an inclusive work environment that welcomes and supports employees from all backgrounds.
Safety and Quality: Boeing is committed to the highest standards of safety and quality in all its products and services.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: The Space and Launch Team works closely with other Boeing divisions, as well as government and civilian spacecraft operations teams.
Code Review Culture: The team employs a code review culture to ensure the quality, reliability, and maintainability of spacecraft systems and mission operations software.
Peer Programming: The team encourages peer programming and knowledge-sharing to promote learning, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Boeing's culture is characterized by a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. The company values diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance, and offers numerous opportunities for professional development and growth.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Spacecraft Systems: Stay up-to-date with the latest spacecraft systems, technologies, and best practices.
Mission Operations: Keep current with mission operations concepts, techniques, and software tools, and develop a deep understanding of spacecraft missions and their unique requirements.
Anomaly Resolution: Enhance your troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair skills, and stay informed about emerging anomaly resolution techniques and tools.
Emerging Technologies: Stay current with emerging technologies in space systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution, and explore how they can be applied to spacecraft missions and operations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Pursue relevant certifications, attend industry conferences, and engage in online learning platforms to enhance your technical skills and knowledge.
Conference Attendance: Attend industry conferences, such as the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) or the AIAA Space Conference, to network with peers, learn about emerging technologies, and gain insights into industry trends.
Technical Mentorship: Seek mentorship opportunities within the Space and Launch Team or across the broader BDS business unit to gain insights into career paths, technical expertise, and leadership development.
Leadership Development: Participate in leadership development programs, such as Boeing's Leadership Center or external leadership development courses, to enhance your leadership skills and prepare for future roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Boeing offers numerous opportunities for career growth and development, with a strong focus on internal promotions and transfers. The company's size and diverse portfolio of products and services provide ample opportunities for employees to gain experience in new areas and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Spacecraft Systems: Prepare for questions about spacecraft systems, including propulsion, attitude control, communication, power, and thermal control systems. Be ready to discuss your experience with spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution.
Mission Operations: Brush up on mission operations concepts, techniques, and software tools, and be prepared to discuss your experience with mission operations, launch, orbit insertion, commissioning, and on-orbit operations.
Anomaly Resolution: Familiarize yourself with anomaly resolution techniques, and be ready to discuss your experience with troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of spacecraft systems.
Emerging Technologies: Stay current with emerging technologies in space systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution, and be prepared to discuss how they can be applied to spacecraft missions and operations.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Research Boeing's company culture, values, and mission, and be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with Boeing's.
Team Dynamics: Familiarize yourself with the Space and Launch Team's structure, dynamics, and collaborative approach, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the team's success.
Adaptability: Prepare to discuss your ability to adapt to new technologies, tools, and work environments, and how you have demonstrated this adaptability in previous roles.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Project Selection: Choose relevant projects that demonstrate your experience in spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution.
Storytelling: Develop a compelling narrative for each project, highlighting the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the outcomes you achieved.
Technical Deep Dive: Prepare to delve into the technical details of your projects, including the spacecraft systems, mission operations concepts, and anomaly resolution techniques you employed.
User Experience: While not the primary focus of this role, be prepared to discuss how your work has contributed to the user experience of spacecraft missions and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to assess the candidate's technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit within the Space and Launch Team. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong background in spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution, as well as excellent communication and collaboration skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Associate Systems Engineer position:

Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in spacecraft operations, mission management, and anomaly resolution. Include relevant keywords and phrases to optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Portfolio Preparation: Prepare a portfolio that showcases your experience in spacecraft systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution. Include examples of technical documentation, such as operational procedures, memograms, and workarounds, to demonstrate your strong communication skills and attention to detail.
Technical Interview Preparation: Brush up on spacecraft systems, mission operations, and anomaly resolution concepts and techniques. Familiarize yourself with relevant software tools, programming languages, and spacecraft systems. Practice problem-solving skills and develop a strong understanding of spacecraft systems and mission operations.
Company Research: Research The Boeing Company, the Space and Launch Team, and the broader BDS business unit. Understand Boeing's mission, values, and culture, and be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with Boeing's.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web development/server administration industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Associate Systems Engineer