Program Acquisition Specialist

The Program Acquisition Specialist / Systems Engineer provides hands-on acquisition and systems engineering support to a Space Systems Integration Office within a U.S. Space Force command. This full-time role focuses on the successful development, integration, and deployment of space system-of-systems capabilities by combining technical systems engineering expertise with end-to-end program acquisition support. The specialist offloads administrative and managerial burdens from the government Program Manager by managing day-to-day contractual processes, enabling program leadership to focus on strategic mission objectives in a highly visible national security environment.

Responsibilities

• Support the development, integration, and deployment of space system-of-systems capabilities across a diverse portfolio within the U.S. Space Force enterprise.
• Apply knowledge of System-of-Systems (SoS) and Federation-of-Systems (FoS) solutions under operational scenarios to recommend modernization updates and improvements.
• Perform trade studies and technical assessments of candidate mission systems, providing recommendations for changes and enhancements to surface, air, and space systems.
• Design, develop, and test critical software applications throughout all phases of product development and operational deployment, ensuring mission-ready performance.
• Collaborate closely with systems engineers and government customers to define lifecycle requirements and ensure robust software design using a test-driven approach.
• Directly manage and execute administrative processes across the acquisition lifecycle, including requirements definition, market research, post-award contract modifications, and contract closeout.
• Prepare, review, and manage acquisition documentation to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and maintain a complete, organized repository of contractual records.
• Manage program schedules, track milestones, and monitor deliverables to keep leadership informed and ensure the contract remains on schedule and within scope.
• Prepare and deliver regular performance reports and status updates to program leadership, highlighting progress, risks, and mitigation actions.
• Administer program budget tracking by maintaining detailed expenditure records and preparing financial reports that support government program management decisions.
• Act as a primary technical and administrative point of contact, facilitating clear communication and alignment between government personnel, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Coordinate with mission operations, acquisition, and technology support teams to ensure seamless execution of program objectives and customer-facing commitments.
• Support the development, installation, setup, and maintenance of digital engineering and modeling and simulation tools within the organization’s digital environment.
• Contribute to Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), Modeling and Simulation (M&S), and Digital Engineering (DE) activities in support of U.S. Space Force missions.
• Ensure that all acquisition and program support activities adhere to applicable policies, procedures, and security requirements in a classified environment.
• Travel as required to support meetings, reviews, and coordination activities with stakeholders and mission partners.

• Active TS/SCI clearance.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Earth Science, Mathematics, Operations Analysis, or a related field.
• Approximately 2–5 years of relevant experience, with flexibility based on demonstrated capability and performance.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, particularly Word and Excel, with the ability to adapt quickly to new analytical tools and software.
• Strong written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear, accurate reports and documentation for technical and acquisition audiences.
• Strong oral and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with government personnel, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple stakeholders and complex tasks in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment.
• Ability to independently manage day-to-day acquisition and program support activities while maintaining attention to detail and regulatory compliance.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required to support program needs.
• Experience providing acquisition support, including activities such as requirements definition, contract documentation, and program tracking.
• Understanding of mission operations and program support in a government or defense-related setting.

• Experience with space acquisition as a Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) provider in a military, contractor, or Department of Defense civilian role.
• Familiarity with the Department of Defense acquisition lifecycle and related processes, documentation, and oversight requirements.
• Familiarity with DevSecOps practices and modern software engineering principles applied to mission-critical systems.
• Experience with specific government mission areas, particularly those related to kill chain engineering and space mission operations.
• Experience supporting Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), including the use of modeling tools to define and analyze complex systems.
• Experience with Modeling and Simulation (M&S) and Digital Engineering (DE) tools and methodologies in support of space or defense programs.
• Background in acquisitions support, supply chain, or full-cycle program support within a technology, defense, or aerospace environment.
• Customer-facing experience, including customer service and technology support in a highly technical or classified setting.
• Knowledge of space acquisition support practices and industry standards relevant to U.S. Space Force and national security space missions.

This is a full-time role based in a classified environment at an Air Force Base in El Segundo, California, supporting a U.S. Space Force command. Work is performed on-site within secure facilities that require an active TS/SCI clearance and adherence to all security protocols. The environment is highly collaborative and mission-focused, with regular interaction among government personnel, contractors, and technical teams working on national security space programs. The role involves the use of standard office productivity tools such as Microsoft Word and Excel, as well as specialized digital engineering, modeling and simulation, and systems engineering tools within a secure digital ecosystem. The position offers a stable opportunity supporting long-term space and national security efforts, with strong potential for transition from contract to permanent employment. Work hours generally follow a standard full-time schedule, with flexibility required to support program milestones, reviews, and critical mission events. Professional attire appropriate for a military base and secure office setting is expected.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of El Segundo, CA.

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $75.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in El Segundo,CA.

This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.