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 (Hybrid/Flex/On-site)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Systems Engineering / Defense Operations

Date Posted: August 19, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for the advancement of USN submarine mechanical systems, focusing on the integration of new capabilities and technologies.

• You will be instrumental in the concept development and systems engineering lifecycle for complex defense platforms.

• The position requires a strong understanding of systems engineering principles and their application to integrated mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.

• Collaboration with cross-functional teams, vendors, and subcontractors will be a key aspect of driving project success in a defense operations context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Design Systems Engineer" combined with "Seaborne Platform Systems" and "USN submarine mechanical systems" clearly places this role within the defense industry, specifically focused on naval engineering operations. The emphasis on "new and emerging capabilities and technologies" suggests a forward-looking, innovative aspect to the systems engineering responsibilities. The "Hybrid/Flex/On-site" work arrangement indicates a modern approach to workplace flexibility within a traditionally on-site heavy industry.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and contribute to the systems engineering process for Seaborne Platform Systems, with a focus on USN submarine mechanical systems.

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

• Design and oversee the integration of mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical subsystems, ensuring seamless interface management.

• Plan, execute, and report on system testing and validation activities to verify performance against requirements.

• Engage in concept development and rapid prototyping initiatives to explore and implement innovative solutions for platform and warfighter enhancements.

• Coordinate with vendors and subcontractors to ensure timely delivery of components and services that meet system specifications and program schedules.

• Apply systems modeling tools and techniques to analyze system behavior, identify potential issues, and optimize design performance.

• Research and identify opportunities to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to drive continuous improvement and innovation in defense systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of traditional systems engineering tasks (requirements management, testing, integration) with a forward-looking component (concept development, rapid prototyping, AI integration). The mention of "USN submarine mechanical systems" and "warfighter needs" underscores the critical nature of this role within defense operations.

🎓 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.

• 6 months of relevant experience if holding a Master's degree. Required Skills:

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

• Proficiency in requirements management processes and tools.

• Experience with system modeling tools and techniques.

• Ability to grasp and apply new information quickly and handle increasing responsibilities with growing complexity.

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, with a proven ability to thrive in team-oriented environments.

• Demonstrated commitment to continuous professional development for oneself and others.

• Familiarity with the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for continuous improvement and innovation. Preferred Skills:

• Systems Engineering of integrated mechanical systems.

• Experience with hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical interfaces.

• Proven ability in test planning, test execution, and reporting.

• Submarine systems experience.

• Experience in Concept Development and Rapid Prototyping.

• Vendor and Subcontractor Coordination experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a solid foundation in systems engineering principles, coupled with practical experience in managing complex integrated systems. The preference for submarine systems and rapid prototyping suggests a need for candidates who can adapt to specialized defense environments and drive innovation quickly. The inclusion of AI as a skill indicates the company's commitment to modernizing its defense solutions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of systems engineering projects, highlighting your role in requirements definition, design, integration, and testing.

• Demonstrate experience with process optimization, illustrating how you improved efficiency or effectiveness in a previous role.

• Include case studies of system modeling or simulation projects, detailing the tools used and the insights gained.

• Present documentation of your involvement in vendor or subcontractor coordination, emphasizing successful project delivery and issue resolution. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of documented system requirements and how they were managed throughout the project lifecycle.

• Illustrate your approach to test planning and execution, including test case development, execution, and reporting methodologies.

• Detail your experience with system interface management and how you ensured seamless integration between different components or subsystems.

• Showcase any experience with rapid prototyping processes, from initial concept to functional demonstration.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Systems Engineer role, especially in defense, a portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's ability to manage complex processes and systems. The emphasis on requirements, testing, integration, and vendor coordination is crucial. Demonstrating experience with prototyping and emerging technologies like AI will be highly advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: USD $100,219 - $111,180 per year. This estimate is based on the provided salary range for this position, considering experience level and location. Actual pay may vary.

Benefits:

• 401k matching

• Flex time off

• Paid parental leave

• Comprehensive healthcare benefits

• Health & wellness programs

• Employee resource groups

• Social groups

• Opportunities for continuous learning and development

• Research-oriented work with award-winning teams

• Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work (9/80 schedule) Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week.

• Potential for a 9/80 schedule, offering flexibility with every other Friday off.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range falls within the typical compensation for a Systems Engineer with 2-5 years of experience in a specialized industry like defense, particularly in a location like North Carolina. The benefits package is robust, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance, which is increasingly important for attracting talent in technical fields. The 9/80 schedule is a significant perk for work-life integration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense & Aerospace, Technology Solutions, Government Contracting. General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) operates at the forefront of high-technology solutions for defense and scientific missions across all operational domains. They are known for expanding innovation in defense and scientific arenas through partnerships.

Company Size: 12,000+ employees globally. This large size suggests a stable organization with diverse opportunities and established processes, while also implying potential for both large-scale project involvement and specialized team environments.

Founded: General Dynamics has a long history, with GDMS being a key segment focused on advanced mission systems. This legacy suggests a company with deep expertise and a strong track record in the defense sector.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Seaborne Platform Systems team, a specialized group within GDMS.

• You will be a member of a cross-functional team, indicating collaboration with engineers from various disciplines (mechanical, electrical, software, etc.).

• The reporting structure likely involves a Systems Engineering Manager or Program Manager, with clear lines of communication for project direction and oversight.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working closely with other engineering disciplines, program management, and potentially customer representatives (USN). Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making and rigorous engineering practices are expected.

• Emphasis on requirements management, system design, and validation aligned with defense standards.

• Application of systems engineering principles for integrated product development.

• Continuous improvement and innovation are encouraged, particularly through the integration of new technologies like AI.

Company Website: https://gdmissionsystems.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: GDMS's focus on "high technology solutions" and "expanding the bounds of innovation" suggests a culture that values technical expertise and forward-thinking. The explicit mention of valuing "trust, honesty, alignment and transparency" points to a professional and ethical work environment. The large company size indicates a structured environment with clear career paths, but the specific team context (Seaborne Platform Systems) suggests specialized work within that structure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an early to mid-career Systems Engineer (2-5 years experience). It offers a foundational role within a specialized defense engineering domain, with significant potential for growth.

Reporting Structure: You will report to a manager within the Seaborne Platform Systems group and work as part of a cross-functional engineering team. This structure allows for mentorship from senior engineers and exposure to various aspects of complex defense system development.

Operations Impact: Your work will directly contribute to the capabilities and effectiveness of USN submarine platforms. This impact is significant, influencing national security through the development and implementation of advanced technologies for critical defense assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in submarine systems, mechanical design, requirements management, and advanced engineering methodologies. Opportunities to gain certifications in Systems Engineering (e.g., INCOSE).

• Technology Specialization: Develop specialized skills in emerging technologies like AI, rapid prototyping, and advanced modeling, becoming a subject matter expert in these areas.

• Leadership Potential: Progress to senior Systems Engineer roles, technical lead positions on projects, or management roles within GDMS's engineering departments. The company's commitment to continuous learning suggests clear pathways for advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within the defense engineering sector. The emphasis on continuous learning and development, combined with the specialized nature of submarine systems, provides opportunities for deep technical specialization and potential leadership. The direct impact on national security is a significant motivator for many in this field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in McLeansville, NC, and offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for flexibility between on-site, flex, and remote work from the local area. This offers a blend of structured office collaboration and personal flexibility.

Office Location(s): 5440 Millstream Road, McLeansville, NC 27301. This location serves as the primary hub for on-site work.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely involve a mix of individual focused work (e.g., analysis, design, documentation) and collaborative team sessions (e.g., design reviews, problem-solving).

• Access to advanced engineering tools, software, and potentially specialized testing facilities will be available.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with fellow systems engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and program managers are inherent to the cross-functional team structure. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week.

• A 9/80 schedule is offered, where employees work 80 hours over nine days, resulting in every other Friday off. This provides excellent work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of this role, offering flexibility uncommon in some defense sectors. The 9/80 schedule is a significant benefit that enhances work-life integration, appealing to candidates seeking a better balance. The collaborative environment is essential for complex engineering projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, interest, and security clearance eligibility.

• Technical Interview(s): Discussions with hiring managers and senior engineers focusing on systems engineering principles, requirements management, system design, and problem-solving scenarios. Expect questions about your experience with mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss your professional portfolio. Be prepared to walk through specific projects, explain your contributions, and articulate the outcomes. Focus on projects that demonstrate your systems engineering lifecycle experience.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of cultural fit, teamwork, communication skills, and alignment with GDMS values (trust, honesty, alignment, transparency). Questions may relate to handling increasing responsibilities, handling complex challenges, and continuous learning.

• Security Clearance Verification: The process will involve verification of your existing DoD Secret security clearance and U.S. citizenship.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your systems engineering skills, particularly those involving integrated mechanical systems or defense platforms.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your specific role and responsibilities, the methodologies and tools used (e.g., requirements management software, modeling tools), the challenges faced, your solutions, and quantifiable results or lessons learned.

• Highlight Systems Thinking: Emphasize how you approached the system as a whole, considering interdependencies between mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical components.

• Demonstrate Process Adherence: Show your understanding and application of formal systems engineering processes, including requirements traceability and verification & validation (V&V).

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, trade-offs made, and how you handled technical challenges or scope changes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical "what-if" scenarios related to system failures, requirement changes, or integration issues.

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.

• Think about how you would apply AI to improve a system's performance or a development process.

• Understand the company's mission and how your role contributes to national security.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and specific interview tips is crucial for operations roles. Candidates need to be ready to demonstrate their practical application of systems engineering principles, particularly within the defense context. The security clearance requirement is a major factor in the application process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Requirements Management Tools: Experience with tools like DOORS, Jama Connect, or similar platforms for managing and tracing requirements is highly beneficial.

• System Modeling Tools: Proficiency in tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler (MagicDraw), Rhapsody, or similar for creating system architecture models (e.g., SysML).

• CAD Software (Familiarity): While not a CAD designer role, understanding how to read and interpret CAD models from mechanical designs (e.g., SOLIDWORKS, CATIA) is advantageous.

• Simulation Software (Familiarity): Exposure to simulation tools for mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical systems (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, ANSYS) can be a plus.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Familiarity with tools for analyzing test data and performance metrics (e.g., Excel, Python with libraries like Pandas, MATLAB).

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating technical reports, test summaries, and presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how engineering data flows into broader enterprise systems may be relevant.

• AI/ML Platforms (Exposure): Familiarity with platforms or frameworks for AI development and integration (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, cloud AI services) is increasingly valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Systems Engineer in defense, proficiency in requirements management and system modeling tools is paramount. The mention of AI indicates a forward-looking technology stack where exposure to relevant platforms is a significant advantage. Understanding how engineering data integrates into wider business systems is also beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Trust, Honesty, Alignment, Transparency: These are core values at GDMS, guiding all interactions and decision-making. Operations professionals are expected to embody these principles in their daily work and collaborations.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to explore new technologies, identify opportunities for enhancement, and implement solutions that improve system performance and efficiency.

• Commitment to Mission: A deep understanding of and dedication to the company's mission of supporting national security through advanced technology.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: A strong belief in the power of collective effort, open communication, and mutual support to achieve complex engineering goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with engineers from diverse disciplines to achieve integrated system solutions.

• Open Communication: Encouraging the sharing of ideas, concerns, and feedback constructively.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A shared commitment to identifying and resolving technical challenges effectively and efficiently.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in knowledge transfer sessions and mentoring junior team members to foster collective growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicitly stated values of "Trust, Honesty, Alignment, and Transparency" are critical for a defense contractor. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how they uphold these values. The emphasis on collaboration and innovation aligns with the demands of complex, cutting-edge defense projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Systems: Integrating new technologies into established, highly regulated submarine systems requires meticulous planning and execution to avoid unintended consequences.

• Security Clearance Requirements: Maintaining an active DoD Secret security clearance and adhering to strict security protocols is a constant requirement.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with rapidly advancing technologies, particularly AI, and identifying their practical applications within a defense context can be demanding.

• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Effectively bridging communication gaps between different engineering disciplines and stakeholders to ensure a unified system design.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Systems Engineering Training: Opportunities to pursue certifications (e.g., INCOSE CSEP) and advanced training in specialized areas of systems engineering.

• Emerging Technology Immersion: Access to training and projects focused on AI, machine learning, rapid prototyping, and other cutting-edge technologies relevant to defense applications.

• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from guidance and experience sharing from senior engineers and technical leads within GDMS.

• Project Variety: Exposure to a diverse range of submarine systems and defense platform projects, offering continuous learning and skill diversification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for high-stakes engineering roles in the defense sector. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for professional development and specialization in critical areas of modern defense technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex mechanical system you worked on. What were the key challenges in its integration, and how did you address them from a systems engineering perspective?" (Focus on requirements, interfaces, and testing.)

• "How would you approach managing conflicting requirements from different stakeholders (e.g., performance vs. cost vs. schedule) for a submarine system?" (Emphasize trade-off analysis, documentation, and communication.)

• "Imagine a new AI capability needs to be integrated into a submarine's navigation system. Walk us through your initial systems engineering approach, from concept to potential implementation." (Demonstrate structured thinking and awareness of AI integration challenges.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How have you demonstrated honesty, transparency, and alignment in a previous team project?" (Prepare specific examples that align with GDMS values.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt quickly to a new technology or a rapidly changing project scope. How did you handle it?" (Highlight adaptability and learning agility.)

• "How do you see AI contributing to the future of submarine systems or defense operations?" (Showcase your understanding of industry trends and GDMS's strategic interests.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin your portfolio presentation by summarizing the overall goal and impact of your most relevant project.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and decision-making processes. Use "I" statements where appropriate.

• Visualize Processes: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or screenshots to illustrate complex systems, workflows, or requirements structures.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your work (e.g., "reduced testing time by 15%," "improved system reliability by X%").

• Tell a Story: Structure your project presentations as narratives, highlighting challenges, your problem-solving approach, and the successful outcome.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical choices, the tools you used, and the trade-offs you made.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should heavily emphasize the systems engineering lifecycle, defense industry context, and the company's core values. The portfolio presentation is a critical component, requiring candidates to clearly articulate their contributions and the impact of their work.

---

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Systems Engineer position:

• Submit your application through the General Dynamics Mission Systems careers portal using the provided URL.

• Tailor your resume to highlight experience in systems engineering, requirements management, mechanical/hydraulic/electrical systems, and any defense or submarine-related projects. Ensure keywords from the job description are incorporated naturally.

• Prepare your portfolio with 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your systems engineering lifecycle experience, focusing on integrated systems and quantifiable achievements.

• Practice your portfolio presentation, focusing on clearly articulating your role, the challenges overcome, and the impact of your work. Be ready to discuss your approach to system design, testing, and integration.

• Research General Dynamics Mission Systems thoroughly, understanding their mission, values (trust, honesty, alignment, transparency), and recent projects, particularly in naval systems. Prepare to discuss how your skills and values align with the company culture.

• Confirm your eligibility for a Department of Defense Secret security clearance and confirm your U.S. citizenship.

⚠️ 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.