Student: System Engineering Assistant

Job ID: 8571
Date Posted: July 22, 2026

Join the Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) team, where you'll contribute to groundbreaking innovations! We are seeking applicants for a Systems Engineering Assistant to join our C4ISR Systems Division. This position will be very diversified with exposure to several different aspects of development and testing. The applicant should have the ability to understand the program’s vision and work with the team to translate that vision into a technical solution. The successful applicant will work with system engineers and program management to ensure technical requirements and performance are achieved.

The Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) Systems Division delivers mission-critical solutions, specializing in cyber operations, information architecture, strategic deterrence, and ISR. Our division’s commitment to innovation and security enables us to provide critical solutions across defense, intelligence, and national security. Join our team and contribute to the next generation of defense technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintaining and upgrading of High Performance Computing systems
• Development of integration and automation tools for maintenance of Linux and Windows systems
• Assisting in creating and updating documentation of systems
• Performing tests to validate systems are ready for operations
• Helping perform troubleshooting of failed systems
• Supporting development efforts

• Ability to work 15-20 hours per week during semesters and up to 40 hours per week during summer
• Must be a Utah State University student seeking a bachelor’s degree in a related technical field (e.g., software engineering or electrical engineering)
• Excellent communication skills
• Quick learner and ability to work through issues with little direction and supervision
• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

• Ability to understand the software development process
• Ability to adapt to new technologies
• Ability to work well within a team, collaborate, and share ideas
• Ability to communicate technical issues, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines
• Experience with programming and scripting languages such as Python, Ruby, Bash, Powershell

Student Scholar Program: SDL provides unique opportunities for student employees to develop real-world experience and knowledge beyond the classroom through our Student Scholar Program. This program offers monthly technical workshops, outreach activities, and academic stipends to eligible student employees. All SDL student employees are invited to participate in the program to expand their professional network while supporting SDL's mission.

SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.