Senior Prototyping and Implementation Architect

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Prototyping and Implementation Architect

Company: Modern Technology Solutions Inc (MTSI)

Location: Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, USA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Systems Engineering & Architecture

Date Posted: August 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical prototyping and implementation strategy for the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) Family of Systems (FoS), focusing on accelerating advanced air dominance platforms.

• Drive the translation of high-level operational requirements into actionable prototyping roadmaps, digital engineering models, and integrated system architectures.

• Provide senior-level engineering leadership to multidisciplinary government and industry teams, guiding them through rapid design, integration planning, and early system validation.

• Facilitate the transition of prototype capabilities into formal programs of record or subsequent spiral development efforts, ensuring alignment with mission needs in contested environments.

• Act as a key liaison between government program offices, industry partners, and various engineering disciplines, including digital engineering, modeling and simulation, and test communities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is highly specialized within the defense aerospace sector, specifically focusing on the complex NGAD program. The title "Architect" implies a strategic, design-oriented function rather than pure hands-on implementation, with a strong emphasis on translating operational needs into technical realities for advanced military systems. The "Prototyping and Implementation" aspect highlights a focus on rapid development, early validation, and a clear path to integration into larger programs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive technical prototyping strategies that directly support NGAD portfolio objectives, encompassing platforms, sensors, weapons, connectivity, and autonomy components.

• Create executable prototyping roadmaps, detailed digital engineering models, and robust early integration plans derived from high-level operational requirements.

• Conduct thorough evaluations of technology readiness levels (TRLs), identify critical technical risks, and inform early engineering trade studies in collaboration with government program offices.

• Guide and mentor industry partners throughout their architecture development, interface definition, modeling activities, and the execution of risk-reduction prototype builds.

• Design and implement effective frameworks for transitioning validated prototype capabilities into formal Programs of Record (PoRs) or iterative spiral development initiatives.

• Ensure prototypes accurately reflect end-to-end operational needs by coordinating across diverse mission threads, developing CONOPS (Concept of Operations), and performing capability decomposition.

• Offer senior-level engineering leadership and strategic direction during critical technical interchange meetings, formal design reviews, and early integration exercises.

• Assist government stakeholders in the planning and execution of comprehensive experimentation campaigns, flight tests, laboratory-based evaluations, and digital simulations.

• Serve as a primary interface for digital engineering, modeling and simulation (M&S), systems engineering, software development, and testing communities, fostering seamless collaboration.

• Produce high-quality, decision-support documentation, including analysis summaries, prototype assessments, and architecture recommendations for senior acquisition leaders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of strategic planning, technical leadership, and cross-functional collaboration. The focus on "prototyping" and "early integration" suggests a role that bridges research and development with program execution, requiring a deep understanding of the entire system lifecycle from concept to initial implementation. The need to produce "decision-quality documentation" for "senior acquisition leaders" highlights the strategic importance and visibility of this position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field is typically expected for this level of role. Advanced degrees (Master's or Ph.D.) in a relevant engineering discipline are often preferred, especially for complex architecture and RDT&E roles. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in systems engineering, architecture development, advanced prototyping, Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E), or advanced aerospace design is required.

• Demonstrated experience supporting major defense aviation acquisition programs is a significant advantage, with specific preference for experience related to fighters, Unmanned Combat Air Vehicles (UCAVs), autonomy, sensors, mission systems, or advanced weapons. Required Skills:

• Systems Engineering & Architecture Development: Deep expertise in defining, designing, and evolving complex system architectures, with a strong understanding of engineering principles and best practices.

• Prototyping & Rapid Development: Proven ability to lead and execute rapid prototyping initiatives, transforming concepts into tangible, testable capabilities within accelerated timelines.

• Digital Engineering & MBSE: Strong proficiency in digital engineering principles, including Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies, for creating, analyzing, and managing system designs.

• Aerospace Design & RDT&E: Comprehensive knowledge of advanced aerospace design principles and experience within Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) environments.

• Technical Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary technical teams, mentor junior engineers, and provide strategic engineering guidance to senior stakeholders.

• Defense Acquisition Programs: Solid understanding of the defense acquisition lifecycle, program management, and the processes involved in bringing advanced military systems to fruition.

• Communication & Collaboration: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a proven track record of effectively collaborating with diverse teams, including government, industry, and cross-functional engineering groups.

• Security Clearance: Active Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility is mandatory; willingness to obtain Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Program (SAP)/Special Access Facility (SAF) access is required.

Preferred Skills:

• NGAD Program Experience: Direct experience within the NGAD program, Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), Advanced Weapons, or related advanced DoD programs.

• Rapid Prototyping Environments: Hands-on experience in fast-paced prototyping environments, flight test operations, mission systems integration, or the development of autonomy architectures.

• Government Program Support: Experience supporting government program management offices, contributing to acquisition strategy development, and coordinating multi-vendor efforts.

• Interface Definition & Integration: Expertise in defining and managing complex system interfaces and planning for seamless integration of diverse components.

• Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating technical risks throughout the design and prototyping phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications clearly point towards a senior-level individual with a strong foundation in aerospace systems engineering and a specialized understanding of defense programs, particularly advanced air dominance concepts. The emphasis on digital engineering and MBSE reflects the modern shift in how complex systems are designed and managed. The security clearance requirement is critical and non-negotiable for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Systems Architecture Design: Showcase examples of complex system architectures you have designed, detailing the rationale, trade-offs considered, and alignment with operational requirements. This could include diagrams, conceptual documents, or design specifications.

• Prototyping & Integration Case Studies: Present detailed case studies of successful prototyping efforts you have led or significantly contributed to. Highlight the problem, your approach, key technical challenges overcome, integration strategies, and the achieved outcomes or lessons learned.

• Digital Engineering & MBSE Artifacts: Include examples of MBSE models, SysML diagrams, or other digital engineering artifacts that demonstrate your proficiency in creating and utilizing digital representations for system design, analysis, and communication.

• Requirements Translation & Traceability: Provide examples of how you have translated high-level operational requirements into detailed technical specifications, architecture elements, and testable objectives, demonstrating clear traceability.

• Risk Assessment & Mitigation Plans: Showcase instances where you have identified technical risks, performed thorough assessments, and developed effective mitigation strategies for complex aerospace systems.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and optimizing workflows for rapid prototyping, system integration, and new capability development, emphasizing efficiency and speed.

• System Integration Planning: Present documentation that outlines comprehensive plans for integrating disparate system components, including interface control documents (ICDs), integration strategies, and testing methodologies.

• Performance Analysis & Reporting: Include examples of how you have documented and analyzed the performance of prototypes or early-stage systems, focusing on metrics, test results, and recommendations for further development or integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and technical focus, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list past projects but demonstrate the candidate's strategic thinking, technical depth in architecture and prototyping, and ability to manage complex processes within the defense sector. The emphasis on digital engineering and risk mitigation is paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Systems Engineers/Architects with 10+ years of experience, active Top Secret clearances, and specialization in advanced aerospace/defense programs in the Wright-Patterson AFB, OH area, the estimated salary range is $150,000 - $200,000 annually. This range can vary based on the specific candidate's experience, qualifications, and the exact scope of their contributions to the NGAD program. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage with robust plans for employees and their dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with company matching contributions to help employees save for the future.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous PTO policy including vacation, sick leave, and holidays, allowing for work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, certifications, advanced training, and attendance at relevant industry conferences to stay current with aerospace and defense technologies.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Company-provided life insurance and short-term/long-term disability coverage.

• Security Clearance Support: Assistance and support for maintaining and upgrading security clearances and access levels.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week. While on-site, there may be flexibility in daily start/end times, but core business hours are expected to be covered. Occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet critical project deadlines or support urgent testing/integration activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on market data for senior-level engineering roles in high-demand defense sectors, particularly those requiring active security clearances and specialized expertise like NGAD. Benefits are typical for a well-established technology solutions provider in the defense industry. The mention of SAP/SAF access implies potential for specialized compensation or bonuses related to clearance levels.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense & Aerospace Technology Solutions

Company Size: 251-500 employees

Founded: 2002

Company Description: Modern Technology Solutions Inc. (MTSI) is a 100% employee-owned, employee-driven company that provides senior-level systems engineering, test and evaluation, and program management expertise to government and industry clients. MTSI is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions to complex national security challenges.

Team Structure:

• The Prototyping and Implementation Architect will likely be part of a larger Systems Engineering or Advanced Concepts team within MTSI, potentially embedded within or closely supporting government program offices at Wright-Patterson AFB.

• The team will consist of highly experienced engineers, scientists, and program managers with diverse specializations in aerospace systems, defense acquisition, and emerging technologies.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a senior engineering lead or program director, with close collaboration across multiple government and industry program stakeholders. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: MTSI emphasizes using empirical data and rigorous analysis to inform technical and programmatic decisions, especially in RDT&E and prototyping.

• Agile & Iterative Development: The company culture supports rapid iteration, agile methodologies, and continuous improvement, particularly crucial for prototyping and early integration efforts.

• Collaborative Problem Solving: MTSI fosters a culture where cross-functional teams work together to tackle complex challenges, leveraging the collective expertise of its employee-owners.

• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and meeting the unique mission needs of government clients, ensuring that technical solutions directly address operational requirements.

Company Website: https://mtsi-va.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: MTSI's employee-owned structure suggests a culture of shared commitment and dedication to client success. The company's focus on "senior-level systems engineering" and "national security challenges" aligns perfectly with the requirements of this architect role. The culture is likely to be technically rigorous, collaborative, and results-oriented, emphasizing practical application of advanced engineering principles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor / Technical Lead

This role represents a senior-level position focused on deep technical expertise and strategic influence rather than direct people management. It's a critical individual contributor role that guides technical direction and architectural integrity for a high-priority program.

Reporting Structure:

The Senior Prototyping and Implementation Architect will report to a senior program leader or director within MTSI. They will work closely with government program managers, technical leads from various industry partners, and other senior systems engineers. This matrixed reporting and collaboration structure is common in large defense programs.

Operations Impact:

The architect's work is foundational to the success of the NGAD FoS. By accelerating technical maturation and ensuring robust early integration, they directly impact:

• Program Schedule & Cost: Reducing risk and identifying issues early helps keep programs on track and within budget.

• Mission Effectiveness: Ensuring prototypes meet end-to-end operational needs directly contributes to the warfighter's capabilities in highly contested environments.

• Technological Advancement: Driving innovation in areas like autonomy, connectivity, and advanced platforms positions the US for future air dominance.

• Acquisition Strategy: Providing decision-quality insights influences long-term acquisition strategies and program direction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific NGAD components (e.g., autonomy, sensors, digital architectures) or advanced aerospace technologies.

• Program Leadership: Transition into program management roles, leading larger teams or entire program elements.

• Architectural Authority: Become a recognized authority and principal architect for critical defense programs.

• Mentorship & Training: Lead technical initiatives, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to MTSI's internal knowledge base and training programs.

• Business Development: Contribute to proposal development and client engagement, leveraging expertise to secure future contracts.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant impact and growth potential within the defense sector. The focus is on becoming a deep technical expert and strategic advisor, with clear pathways to leadership and continued influence within high-stakes national security programs. The "operations" in this context refers to the operational effectiveness of the defense systems being developed.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily on-site within government facilities or MTSI offices located near Wright-Patterson AFB. This is a secure government contracting environment.

Office Location(s): Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, USA. This location is a major hub for Air Force research, development, and acquisition.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Engineering Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace that encourages close collaboration with government personnel, prime contractors, and other MTSI engineers. This often involves project rooms, shared office spaces, and frequent technical meetings.

• Secure Access: Access to classified information and systems will be a daily requirement, necessitating adherence to strict security protocols and potentially working in SCIF (Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility) environments.

• Technology & Tools: Access to advanced engineering software, modeling and simulation tools, and secure communication systems will be provided. The specific toolset will likely align with government standards for digital engineering and MBSE.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with core hours expected to be covered. Flexibility may be available but is contingent on program needs and security requirements. Occasional overtime or weekend work may be necessary to meet critical deadlines, particularly during key review periods or testing events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characteristic of a senior role within a defense contractor supporting a major government program. Security, collaboration, and adherence to established processes are paramount. The location at Wright-Patterson AFB is significant, placing the individual at the heart of Air Force acquisition and technology development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter screens for basic qualifications, security clearance status, and general fit.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on experience, technical expertise in systems engineering, architecture, and prototyping, and understanding of defense programs.

3. Technical Panel Interview: A panel of senior engineers and subject matter experts will assess technical depth, problem-solving skills, and architectural design capabilities. This may include case studies or hypothetical scenarios.

4. Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of your professional portfolio, highlighting relevant projects, architectural designs, prototyping efforts, and demonstrable impact.

5. Security & Logistics: Final discussions regarding security clearance verification, required access, and onboarding logistics.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project or by skill area (e.g., Architecture, Prototyping, MBSE, Risk Management).

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role and contributions, the technical solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes or impact (e.g., "reduced integration time by X%", "identified Y critical risks", "enabled Z capability").

• Showcase Architecture Design: Include visual aids like high-level architecture diagrams, system decomposition charts, and interface schematics. Explain your design choices and how they met requirements.

• Detail Prototyping Process: Describe your approach to rapid prototyping, including methodologies used, challenges faced, and how you validated prototypes against requirements.

• Highlight MBSE/Digital Engineering: If applicable, demonstrate your use of MBSE tools and methodologies. Show examples of models, analyses performed, and how digital artifacts informed design decisions.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience most relevant to NGAD, advanced air dominance, and defense acquisition.

Challenge Preparation:

• Systems Architecture Scenario: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach designing a complex, multi-domain system architecture given a set of high-level operational requirements and constraints.

• Prototyping Strategy: Discuss how you would develop a prototyping roadmap for a new defense capability, including key milestones, integration points, and risk mitigation strategies.

• MBSE Application: Be ready to explain the benefits of MBSE in a defense acquisition context and how you have leveraged it to improve system design and communication.

• Leadership & Collaboration: Prepare examples of how you have led technical teams, resolved conflicts, and effectively collaborated with diverse stakeholders (government, industry, different engineering disciplines).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is rigorous, typical for senior roles in defense contracting. The portfolio review is a critical component, requiring candidates to proactively demonstrate their expertise and impact with concrete examples. Preparation should focus on showcasing strategic thinking, technical depth, and a proven track record in relevant defense program areas.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Systems Engineering Software: IBM Rhapsody, Cameo Systems Modeler (No Magic/Dassault Systèmes), Sparx Enterprise Architect, or similar MBSE/modeling tools.

• CAD/CAE Software: Potentially involved with or understanding of tools used for airframe design, sensor modeling, and weapon systems (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS, MATLAB/Simulink).

• Requirements Management Tools: DOORS (IBM), Jama Connect, or similar platforms for managing complex system requirements.

• Project Management Software: Microsoft Project, Jira, Asana for tracking project timelines, tasks, and dependencies.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: MATLAB, Python (with libraries like NumPy, Pandas), R for analyzing simulation data, test results, and performance metrics.

• Visualization Tools: Tableau, Power BI, or custom dashboards for presenting complex data and analysis to stakeholders.

• Simulation Software: Experience with or understanding of various simulation environments relevant to aerospace and defense (e.g., STK, X-Plane, custom simulation frameworks).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM role, understanding of how system requirements and architecture feed into program management and acquisition lifecycle management tools is key.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, SharePoint for team communication and document sharing.

• Configuration Management Tools: Git, SVN for managing code and design artifacts, especially in software-intensive systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily geared towards engineering and modeling. Proficiency in MBSE tools and simulation software is paramount. While direct "CRM" might not be used, understanding the flow of requirements and design information through the acquisition lifecycle is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A deep commitment to rigorous engineering analysis, sound architectural principles, and the pursuit of cutting-edge technological solutions.

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding the highest ethical standards and fostering an environment of trust, essential when dealing with sensitive defense programs and classified information.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing diverse perspectives and working effectively across government, industry, and internal MTSI teams to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Agility: Embracing new ideas, fostering creative problem-solving, and adapting quickly to evolving requirements and technological advancements.

• Mission Focus: A strong sense of purpose and dedication to supporting national security objectives and the warfighter.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where engineers from different disciplines (systems, software, hardware, test, mission planning) work closely together.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasis on clear, concise, and frequent communication, especially with government stakeholders and industry partners, to ensure alignment and mitigate risks.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback and open dialogue during design reviews, technical interchanges, and team meetings to refine solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights across teams and projects to foster continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: MTSI's employee-owned structure and focus on defense solutions suggest a culture that is highly professional, technically driven, and mission-oriented. The values likely promote a sense of ownership and responsibility among employees, driving a collective effort towards achieving complex national security goals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of NGAD FoS: Navigating the intricate and evolving architecture of the NGAD Family of Systems, which involves multiple interconnected platforms and capabilities.

• Rapid Pace of Innovation: Keeping pace with rapid technological advancements in areas like AI, autonomy, sensors, and advanced materials, and integrating them effectively into the NGAD architecture.

• Interoperability & Integration: Ensuring seamless interoperability and integration between diverse systems developed by multiple contractors and government entities.

• Security Requirements: Managing and adhering to stringent security protocols, including obtaining and maintaining high-level clearances and access authorizations.

• Translating Vision to Reality: Bridging the gap between ambitious operational concepts and executable engineering solutions within program constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training courses in areas like MBSE, AI/ML for defense, advanced sensor technologies, and cyber security for aerospace systems.

• Industry Conferences & Symposia: Opportunities to attend leading aerospace and defense conferences to stay abreast of the latest trends, network with peers, and present findings.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for mentorship from senior technical leaders within MTSI or through program-specific initiatives.

• Certification Programs: Support for obtaining relevant professional certifications in systems engineering, MBSE, or project management.

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Direct involvement in developing next-generation defense capabilities, providing unparalleled practical experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to working on a program as ambitious and technologically advanced as NGAD. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering deep dives into cutting-edge defense technologies and clear paths for career advancement within a specialized and high-demand field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Architecture Design: "Describe your process for developing a complex system architecture for a new defense platform. How would you balance performance, cost, schedule, and security constraints?" (Focus on structured approach, trade-off analysis, MBSE tools).

• Prototyping Strategy: "If tasked with developing a prototype for a new autonomous mission system for NGAD, what would be your initial steps, key milestones, and how would you ensure it aligns with the overall FoS architecture?" (Highlight iterative design, risk reduction, integration planning).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between diverse engineering teams (e.g., software, hardware, mission systems) and government stakeholders on a large defense program?" (Emphasize clear documentation, regular meetings, conflict resolution).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to MTSI and this specific role supporting the NGAD program?" (Research MTSI's mission, values, and employee-owned structure; connect personal career goals to the role's impact).

• "How do you approach working in a secure government contracting environment with strict protocols?" (Demonstrate understanding of security importance and compliance).

• "Describe a time you had to influence senior leaders on a technical decision. What was your approach and the outcome?" (Showcase strategic communication and persuasion skills). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each portfolio piece, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your solution, the process, and the outcome.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise diagrams and charts. Explain what they represent and why they are important.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your contributions and the impact of your work whenever possible.

• MBSE Demonstration: Be ready to walk through a relevant MBSE model or diagram, explaining your methodology and the insights gained.

• NGAD Relevance: Explicitly connect your past experiences and skills to the requirements of the NGAD program and the Senior Prototyping and Implementation Architect role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of systems engineering principles, advanced aerospace technologies, defense acquisition processes, and strong leadership capabilities. The ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly and showcase practical experience through a portfolio is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the official MTSI careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and experiences directly related to systems engineering, architecture development, prototyping, digital engineering, MBSE, defense aviation, and your security clearance status. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio that showcases your most relevant projects, architectural designs, prototyping case studies, and MBSE artifacts. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your impact and suitability for this senior role.

• Prepare for Technical Interviews: Review common systems engineering and architecture questions, and practice articulating your approach to complex technical challenges and program strategies.

• Research MTSI and NGAD: Understand MTSI's mission and culture, and demonstrate your knowledge of the NGAD program's objectives and challenges.

⚠️ 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.