Seaborne Platform Systems - Design Systems Engineer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Seaborne Platform Systems - Design Systems Engineer

Company: General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc

Location: McLeansville, NC, United States

Job Type: OTHER

Category: Systems Engineering / Defense Technology

Date Posted: 2026-08-19

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop systems engineering solutions for USN submarine mechanical systems, focusing on new capabilities and technologies.

• Manage requirements, analyze system interfaces (hydraulic, electrical, mechanical), and oversee test planning and execution.

• Engage in concept development and rapid prototyping initiatives for advanced platform and warfighter technologies.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure successful system integration and delivery.

• Apply systems engineering principles, theories, and technical standards, leveraging system modeling tools for design and analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically tailored for individuals with a strong background in systems engineering applied to complex mechanical and platform systems, particularly within the defense sector. The emphasis on submarine systems, new capabilities, and emerging technologies suggests a forward-looking and innovative engineering environment. The requirement for a DoD Secret clearance and US citizenship highlights the sensitive nature of the work.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to the systems engineering lifecycle for Seaborne Platform Systems, with a primary focus on US Navy submarine mechanical systems.

• Develop and manage system requirements, ensuring traceability and alignment with program objectives and warfighter needs.

• Define, analyze, and document system interfaces, including hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical connections between various sub-systems.

• Create comprehensive test plans, oversee test execution, and generate detailed test reports to validate system performance and functionality.

• Participate in concept development activities, exploring and prototyping new technologies and capabilities to enhance platform and warfighter effectiveness.

• Coordinate with external vendors and subcontractors to ensure the integration of procured components and systems meets design specifications and program timelines.

• Utilize system modeling tools and techniques to represent, analyze, and optimize system architecture and behavior.

• Identify and propose opportunities to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into system design and operational processes for continuous improvement and innovation.

• Contribute to a collaborative team environment, sharing knowledge and actively participating in team success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on systems engineering role requiring deep technical understanding of integrated mechanical systems. The focus on "new and emerging capabilities and technologies" suggests a need for creative problem-solving and adaptability, moving beyond standard engineering tasks to explore innovative solutions. The mention of AI integration points towards a commitment to modernizing engineering practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, or a related Science, Engineering, or Mathematics field.

• Master's degree in a relevant field is a plus. Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of relevant Systems Engineering experience for a Bachelor's degree holder.

• Minimum of 6 months of relevant Systems Engineering experience for a Master's degree holder. Required Skills:

• Clear understanding of systems engineering concepts, principles, theories, and technical standards.

• Proficiency in requirements management, including tools and methodologies.

• Experience with integrated mechanical systems, encompassing hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical interfaces.

• Ability to develop and execute test plans, and analyze test results.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to grasp new information quickly.

• Excellent team player with a collaborative mindset and a focus on shared success.

• Commitment to continuous professional development for self and others. Preferred Skills:

• Submarine systems experience.

• Experience in Concept Development and Rapid Prototyping.

• Vendor and Subcontractor Coordination experience.

• Familiarity with system modeling tools.

• Experience identifying and applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) for continuous improvement and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are tiered, allowing for candidates with either a strong undergraduate foundation and more practical experience, or advanced academic credentials with less, but still relevant, experience. The preferred skills strongly suggest a candidate who can hit the ground running with specific domain knowledge in submarine systems and advanced development methodologies. The explicit mention of AI application indicates a forward-thinking approach to engineering challenges.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successful requirements management processes, including source documentation, traceability matrices, and validation methods.

• Case studies showcasing the design, analysis, and integration of complex mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical systems.

• Examples of test planning documentation, test execution reports, and analysis of test results for integrated systems.

• Evidence of involvement in concept development or rapid prototyping projects, highlighting innovative solutions and their feasibility.

• Documentation of vendor or subcontractor coordination efforts, detailing communication strategies and successful integration outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams and process maps illustrating the systems engineering lifecycle as applied to mechanical or platform systems.

• Documentation of system modeling techniques and the tools used, with examples of how models informed design decisions.

• Records of risk assessment and mitigation strategies implemented during the design and development phases.

• Process documentation for requirement decomposition, interface definition, and system integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of systems engineering principles to hardware systems is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their ability to manage complex requirements, design interfaces, and validate system performance through rigorous testing. Experience with specialized systems like those found in submarines will be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: USD $100,219.00 - USD $111,180.00 / Year

Benefits:

• 401k matching

• Flex time off

• Paid parental leave

• Comprehensive healthcare benefits

• Health & wellness programs

• Employee resource groups

• Social groups

• Access to further information on benefits at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week).

• Option for a 9/80 schedule, allowing for every other Friday off, subject to team and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and falls within the expected band for a Systems Engineer with 2-5 years of experience in the defense industry, particularly in specialized fields requiring security clearances. The 9/80 work schedule is a significant perk, offering enhanced work-life balance for eligible employees. The benefits package is comprehensive and aligns with typical offerings for large defense contractors. Salary estimations were based on the provided combined salary range and common industry benchmarks for similar roles in the US.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense Technology / Aerospace & Defense

Company Size: 10,000+ Employees

Founded: General Dynamics Corporation was founded in 1952, with General Dynamics Mission Systems operating as a key segment.

Team Structure:

• The Seaborne Platform Systems team is part of a larger engineering organization within General Dynamics Mission Systems.

• It operates as a cross-functional unit, integrating Systems Engineers with specialists in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering.

• Reporting structure likely involves a lead systems engineer or engineering manager, with close collaboration across program management and other technical disciplines. Methodology:

• Emphasis on rigorous systems engineering processes, adhering to industry standards and DoD requirements.

• Adoption of modern engineering practices, including potentially Agile methodologies for rapid development and AI integration for process enhancement.

• Strong focus on data-driven decision-making, utilizing test results and system performance metrics.

• Collaborative approach to problem-solving, encouraging diverse perspectives to achieve optimal solutions.

Company Website: https://gdmissionsystems.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: General Dynamics Mission Systems is a significant player in the defense industry, known for its high-technology solutions. The company culture likely emphasizes technical excellence, security, and a commitment to national defense. The large employee base suggests ample opportunities for internal networking and career development. The "value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency" mentioned in the company overview are key cultural indicators.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Design Systems Engineer (Early to Mid-Career)

This role represents an early to mid-career opportunity within Systems Engineering. It requires a solid foundation in engineering principles and the ability to apply them to complex, mission-critical systems. Growth potential involves deepening technical expertise in submarine systems, taking on more complex design challenges, and potentially moving into lead engineering or program management roles.

Reporting Structure:

The Design Systems Engineer will report to a Lead Systems Engineer or Engineering Manager within the Seaborne Platform Systems group. They will work closely with a cross-functional team of engineers, technicians, and potentially program managers.

Operations Impact:

The work directly impacts the capabilities and effectiveness of US Navy submarine platforms and warfighters. Successful system design, integration, and innovation contribute to national security and the technological advantage of the US defense forces. This role provides a direct line of sight to the impact of engineering efforts on critical missions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in submarine mechanical systems, advanced materials, or specific areas like hydraulics, acoustics, or power systems.

• Leadership Development: Progress to a Lead Systems Engineer role, mentoring junior engineers and taking ownership of larger system design packages.

• Program Management: Transition into program management roles, leveraging a strong understanding of technical execution and project lifecycles.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Gain exposure to other engineering disciplines (electrical, software, naval architecture) and expand understanding of the entire platform.

• Advanced Technologies: Opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies, including AI, advanced materials, and novel propulsion or combat systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Systems Engineer at GDMS is typically structured, offering clear progression opportunities. The emphasis on "continuous learning and development" and "research-oriented work" suggests a supportive environment for professional growth. The ability to work on "practical solutions for our nation’s security" provides a strong sense of purpose.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, with the primary location being the McLeansville, NC (Greensboro area) facility.

This implies a balance between on-site collaboration and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s):

• 5440 Millstream Road, McLeansville, NC 27301.

• This location is part of the greater Greensboro area, offering access to regional amenities. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among a cross-functional engineering team.

• Access to modern engineering tools, software, and potentially specialized labs or testing facilities relevant to submarine systems.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, project leads, and subject matter experts to facilitate problem-solving and knowledge sharing. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time work schedule.

• The option for a 9/80 schedule (9 workdays in a 2-week period, with every other Friday off) is available, offering enhanced flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is increasingly common and beneficial for operations roles, allowing for focused work at home and collaborative sessions in the office. The 9/80 schedule is a significant differentiator for work-life balance. Proximity to Greensboro offers a good balance of a suburban/rural work environment with access to urban amenities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Screening: Initial review of resumes and applications for alignment with basic qualifications and preferred skills.

2. Technical Phone Screen: A conversation with a hiring manager or senior engineer to assess technical understanding, systems engineering knowledge, and alignment with role requirements.

3. On-Site/Virtual Interview(s): This may include:

• Technical Deep Dive: In-depth discussion of past projects, systems engineering methodologies, and problem-solving approaches. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your portfolio.
• Behavioral Interview: Questions assessing teamwork, communication, adaptability, and alignment with company values. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
• Portfolio Review: Presentation of selected projects from your portfolio, focusing on your contributions, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved.

1. Security Clearance Verification: Confirmation and initiation of the security clearance process.

2. Offer: Extension of a formal job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your skills in requirements management, system design, interface definition, and testing for mechanical or complex integrated systems.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the problem you solved, your specific role and contributions, the methodologies you employed, and the quantifiable results or improvements achieved.

• Highlight Collaboration: Showcase instances where you worked effectively within cross-functional teams, managed vendor relationships, or coordinated with subcontractors.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss the technical details of your projects, including the challenges and trade-offs involved in your design decisions.

• Showcase Process Understanding: Explain the systems engineering processes you followed and how they contributed to project success.

Challenge Preparation:

• Systems Design Scenario: You might be presented with a hypothetical system design problem and asked to outline your approach to requirements definition, interface management, and risk assessment.

• Requirements Analysis: Be prepared to analyze a set of requirements and identify potential conflicts, ambiguities, or missing information.

• Process Improvement: Discuss how you would approach improving a specific systems engineering process within the context of submarine systems development.

• AI Application: Consider how AI could be applied to enhance systems engineering tasks like requirements validation, simulation, or predictive maintenance for platform systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is thorough, reflecting the critical nature of defense engineering roles. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates your contributions and the impact of your work will be essential. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of systems engineering best practices and how you’ve applied them in real-world scenarios. The emphasis on collaboration and problem-solving indicates a team-oriented approach.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Requirements Management Tools: Experience with tools like IBM DOORS, Jama Connect, or similar platforms for managing complex requirements.

• System Modeling Tools: Proficiency with tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler, Enterprise Architect, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar for creating system models, simulations, and analyses.

• CAD/CAE Software: Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) tools for mechanical design and analysis.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Jira, or Asana for project tracking and task management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions), MATLAB, or Python for data analysis and interpretation of test results.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise technical reports using tools like Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a CRM-focused role, understanding of how integrated systems interface with broader platform management or logistics systems may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with automation principles in engineering workflows, potentially including scripting (e.g., Python) for test automation or data processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed in the job description, a strong candidate will have experience with industry-standard systems engineering software for requirements management and modeling. Familiarity with mechanical design and analysis tools is also highly relevant. The mention of AI integration suggests an openness to exploring emerging automation technologies within engineering processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to high standards in engineering design, analysis, and execution.

• Integrity & Honesty: Upholding ethical standards in all aspects of work, especially critical for defense-related projects.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, shared problem-solving, and mutual support within cross-functional teams.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the exploration of new technologies and approaches to solve complex challenges.

• Commitment to Mission: A deep understanding and dedication to supporting the success of national security missions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Engineers are expected to work closely with peers from different disciplines (mechanical, electrical, software) to achieve holistic system solutions.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, constructive feedback, and the sharing of ideas to drive continuous improvement.

• Team Success Focus: Prioritizing collective achievements over individual accolades, fostering a supportive and goal-oriented environment.

• Proactive Engagement: Encouraging team members to proactively identify issues, propose solutions, and contribute to process enhancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at General Dynamics Mission Systems is heavily influenced by its role in national defense. Values like integrity, technical rigor, and a strong sense of purpose are paramount. The emphasis on collaboration and innovation suggests an environment where engineers can contribute meaningfully and grow professionally.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Submarine Systems: Navigating the intricate and highly specialized nature of submarine mechanical and platform systems.

• Integration of New Technologies: Successfully incorporating emerging capabilities and AI into established, mission-critical platforms, requiring careful validation and risk management.

• Stringent Security Requirements: Adhering to strict DoD security protocols and maintaining necessary clearances throughout employment.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Effectively managing communication and integration efforts across diverse engineering disciplines and external stakeholders.

• Rapid Prototyping Demands: Balancing speed with the rigor required for developing and testing new concepts for sensitive applications.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to company-sponsored training programs focused on advanced systems engineering, submarine technology, and emerging defense capabilities.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant certifications in systems engineering or specialized technical fields.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced engineers and leaders within the organization.

• Conferences & Seminars: Participation in industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in defense engineering.

• Internal Knowledge Sharing: Engagement in workshops, tech talks, and internal forums to share expertise and learn from colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant technical challenges, particularly in integrating advanced technologies into secure, high-stakes defense platforms. However, these challenges are coupled with robust opportunities for professional development, allowing engineers to expand their expertise in a critical and dynamic field. The company's investment in learning and development is a key aspect of retaining talent in the specialized defense sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical system you engineered. What were the key challenges in requirements management and interface definition?" (Prepare to discuss your specific role, the system's complexity, and how you navigated technical hurdles.)

• "How would you approach integrating a new AI-driven capability into an existing submarine platform? What are the primary risks and how would you mitigate them?" (Focus on your understanding of systems engineering principles, risk assessment, and phased implementation.)

• "Walk us through your experience with test planning and execution for integrated systems. What metrics do you prioritize?" (Be ready to explain your process for developing test plans, managing test execution, and analyzing results to validate system performance.)

• "Explain your understanding of the systems engineering lifecycle. How do you ensure requirements are met from concept to deployment?" (Demonstrate a comprehensive grasp of SE processes and your ability to apply them practically.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for General Dynamics Mission Systems, specifically in the Seaborne Platform Systems group?" (Research the company's mission, recent projects, and connect your interests to their work.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a cross-functional engineering team, especially when dealing with diverse technical opinions?" (Highlight your teamwork skills, communication strategies, and ability to find consensus.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to a rapidly changing project requirement or technical challenge. What was your approach?" (Showcase your flexibility, problem-solving skills, and ability to remain calm under pressure.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, clearly outline the problem statement, your specific responsibilities and contributions, the methodologies used, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes or impact.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or system architecture views to illustrate complex concepts. If possible, anonymize sensitive project details.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics and data to demonstrate the success of your work (e.g., efficiency gains, performance improvements, cost savings, risk reduction).

• Focus on Process: Explain how you achieved results, detailing the systems engineering processes you followed and why they were effective.

• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for engineering and your commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong technical foundation in systems engineering, practical problem-solving abilities, and a clear understanding of the defense industry context. Be ready to articulate your experience with specific tools and methodologies, and how you contribute to team success. Tailor your examples to align with the responsibilities and preferred skills outlined in the job description.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the General Dynamics Mission Systems careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in systems engineering, requirements management, mechanical/hydraulic/electrical systems, test planning/execution, and any defense or submarine-related projects. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your relevant skills and achievements. Be ready to present them concisely, focusing on your contributions and the impact of your work.

• Research GDMS: Understand the company's mission, values, and recent projects. Familiarize yourself with their commitment to national security and their technological advancements.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for technical, behavioral, and situational questions, using the STAR method for behavioral responses and practicing your portfolio presentation.

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