Systems Engineer

IQT (In-Q-Tel)

Systems Engineer building national-security prototypes and integrating hardware, software, and networks at IQT. Supporting startups adapting commercial technologies for government operations through testing, architecture, and technical assessment.

Posted 8/4/2026full-timeMcLean • Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $138,369 - $180,034 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in systems engineering, hardware/software integration, and project management, with a focus on developing prototypes and conducting rigorous testing. Capable of effectively communicating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences while managing technical risks and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Systems EngineeringHardware/Software IntegrationTechnical Project ManagementTechnical DocumentationU.S. Citizenship

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Systems IntegrationPrototypingTechnical AssessmentsDebuggingTest ExecutionTechnical Risk ManagementTechnical PresentationsGenerative AI ToolsLaboratory ValidationField Evaluations

Soft Skills

Strong Communication SkillsTeam CollaborationMentoringSelf-MotivatedFast Learner

Certifications & Qualifications

TS/SCI Clearance

Industry Keywords

National SecurityTechnical RiskIntegration ChallengesCustomer EngagementConcept Development

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

TypeScript

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead technical systems engineering on projects across IQT Engineering, managing project scope, technical risk, and schedule
Rapidly develop hardware and software proofs of concept and prototypes to demonstrate feasibility and inform technology decisions
Perform systems integration across hardware, software, and network domains, including single board computers, microcontrollers, and communication systems
Design, execute, and analyze integration and test activities including bench testing, laboratory validation, and field evaluations
Manage technical and schedule risk across projects, identifying mitigation strategies and working with colleagues to minimize overall program risk
Develop technical documentation, test reports, and briefing materials for internal and customer audiences
Present technical findings via customer briefings, blog posts, conference presentations, and publications, as appropriate
Interface with government customers, technical partners, and portfolio companies to understand requirements and demonstrate capabilities
Use generative AI tools to efficiently perform the above tasks
Design and build prototypes addressing national security problems
Provide hands-on systems engineering support to startup companies adapting commercial technology for government use
Define system architectures, identify integration challenges, conduct technical assessments, and advise on paths to operational readiness
Work across concept development, design, prototyping, integration, testing, evaluation, and customer engagement

Requirements

What you’ll need

U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance; active clearance preferred
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline
5+ years of relevant professional experience in systems engineering, hardware/software integration, or related technical roles
Demonstrated expertise managing technical projects with limited oversight, including breaking down complex problems, managing schedules, and delivering results
Hands-on experience with systems integration and testing, including debugging complex hardware/software systems
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team across multiple concurrent projects
Fast learner able to assess different technical approaches and adapt to achieve project goals
Self-motivated contributor with a team-focused mentality and ability to mentor others

Benefits

Comp & perks

Bonus eligible
Teleworking as part of a hybrid work arrangement