Systems Engineer $73,000 - $89,000 | Newport News, VA | Interim Secret Clearance Required Shape the future of data-driven defense systems. Join Caribou Thunder as a Systems Engineer, where you'll design, optimize, and sustain advanced data management and analytics systems that enable real-time decision-making for mission success. You'll work across functional teams to ensure system integrity from concept to deployment-fusing technology, data, and strategy to deliver lasting impact. A Day in the Life - What You'll Do • Design, implement, and manage data ingestion and synchronization processes across multiple systems. • Develop data models and architectures that enhance consistency, scalability, and accessibility. • Write precise, testable requirements with clear acceptance criteria. • Collaborate with stakeholders to transform business needs into technical solutions. • Conduct data analysis, quality assessments, and continuous process improvements. • Support full software and system development life cycles-from requirements through testing and fielding. • Lead independent investigations and deliver technical recommendations to cross-functional teams. • Communicate with geographically dispersed development teams to maintain compliance with evolving standards. Required Qualifications • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, IT, or related STEM field • 2+ years of experience in systems engineering or a related role • Experience with data analytics and management tools • Proficiency in SQL and data query languages • Familiarity with data ingestion and synchronization methods • Strong understanding of logical and physical data models • Experience writing technical documentation and requirements • U.S. citizenship with active Interim Secret clearance Preferred Qualifications • Master's degree in a related field • 4+ years of experience in systems engineering, data analytics, or data architecture • Experience with cloud data platforms and big data technologies • Knowledge of MBSE tools such as Cameo Enterprise Architecture • Understanding of data warehousing and ETL processes • Familiarity with DoDAF models and Agile/Scrum frameworks • Cross-platform experience (Windows, Unix/Linux) and virtualization tools • System administration experience (Solaris/Linux and Windows) • Attention to detail and ability to work independently • Active TS/SCI clearance If this sounds like you, we'd love to talk. Apply today and build something that matters. Who is Caribou Thunder? Caribou Thunder is a HUBZone-certified small business providing advanced technical and engineering services to the U.S. Department of War and its mission partners. 35+ states and 20+ countries. We've delivered trusted solutions for over two decades - strengthening national readiness across missions on land, undersea, in the air, and throughout LEO, MEO, GEO, and deep space. Why Caribou Thunder? TEAM THUNDER - Mission Focused. Delivery Proven. Ready to Serve. * Employee Advocacy * Mission Proven * Global Reach * Skilled Teams * Modern Tools * Empowering Culture Our engineers and innovators ensure capability from sea floor to space frontier - delivering on time, maintaining compliance, and performing with precision in high-consequence environments. We specialize in Engineering Services, Cybersecurity, Software Development, Modeling & Simulation, Digital Engineering, and Artificial Intelligence - disciplines powering the nation's most complex technical missions. Employee Advocacy + Benefits Our people are the heart of Caribou Thunder. We invest in their growth, flexibility, and well-being - knowing their success drives ours. Benefits include: * Premium Health, Dental & Vision Insurance * 401(k) with 6% Company Match * Flexible PTO & Work Schedule * Education & Certification Reimbursement * Support for Military Leave * Work-Life Balance & Traditional Family Values Your future, your flexibility, your well-being - we invest in you. Apply and let's connect.