At Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, we're taking innovation to the next level. From designing the most advanced air vehicles to refining aircraft that defy gravity, our engineers live on the cutting edge of technology. Never have the opportunities for a technical career been so limitless.
Join us as a Lockheed Martin Ground System Engineer (GSE) -- Level 4 with our legendary Skunk Works® organization. Skunk Works is an integral part of Lockheed Martin's Aeronautics business area responsible for advanced systems development including conceptual design and rapid prototyping of clean sheet solutions and improvements and derivatives to existing systems. The ideal skunk is an agile, multi-faceted teammate who loves to solve our customer's most difficult challenges. Some of our unclassified projects include the U-2, SR-71 Blackbird, F-22 Raptor, F-117 Nighthawk, and the F-35 Lightning II. Learn more about some of the incredible things we do at https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/who-we-are/business-areas/aeronautics/skunkworks.html.
The Ground System Engineer (GSE) is a specialized system engineer that acts as a system expert. They perform computer administrations functions to include software installations and upgrades, user account and hardware maintenance. They also deal with real-time troubleshooting of complex hardware/software anomalies with analysis and evaluation of asset under test. They execute readiness tests to verify system under test functionality.
More generally, this position performs technical planning, system integration, verification and validation, cost and risk, and supportability and effectiveness analyses for total systems, and information technology related responsibilities including design, development, and analysis of computer systems or programs based on and related to user or system design specifications; applying systems analysis techniques and procedures, including consulting with users to determine hardware, software, or system functional specifications. Analyses are performed at all levels of total system product to include concept, design, fabrication, test, installation, operation, maintenance and disposal. Ensures the logical and systematic conversion of customer or product requirements into total systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints. Performs functional analysis, timeline analysis, detail trade studies, requirements allocation and interface definition studies to translate customer requirements into hardware and software specifications.
- Ability to maintain a Top Secret clearance with special program access
- DoD IAT Level II certification (Security+, CySA+, or CCNA)
- Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field; equivalent experience also accepted
- 3 to 5 years of hands-on IT infrastructure experience, and strong expertise in operating systems (Windows / Linux), virtualization, and user directory services
- Strong attention to detail and ability to troubleshoot technical issues
- Possess strong written and verbal communications, interpersonal relations, organizational, troubleshooting, and analytical skills
- Must be willing to travel, work any shift (support rotating shifts), weekends and holidays to meet customer requirements
- Experience in engineering documentation, configuration control and change boards, and systems management
- History interfacing directly with DoD customers
- Proven Flight Test experience
- COMSEC - Configuring and troubleshooting End Cryptographic Units (ECUs) and secure tactical or enterprise comms
- Knowledge of avionics systems and or flight test concepts
- Ability to work in a team-oriented, collaborative environment
- Able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment
- Experience with enterprise hardware and core networking (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP)
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $104900.00 - $194700.00
At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow—both professionally and personally.
The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.
- Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
- For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
Skills Required
- Ability to maintain a Top Secret clearance with special program access
- DoD IAT Level II certification, such as Security+, CySA+, or CCNA
- Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field; equivalent experience accepted
- 3 to 5 years of hands-on IT infrastructure experience
- Strong expertise in Windows and Linux operating systems, virtualization, and user directory services
- Strong troubleshooting, analytical, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
- Willingness to travel and work rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays
- Experience with engineering documentation, configuration control, change boards, and systems management
- Direct experience interfacing with DoD customers
- Flight test experience
- COMSEC experience configuring and troubleshooting End Cryptographic Units and secure communications
- Knowledge of avionics systems or flight test concepts
- Experience with enterprise hardware and core networking, including TCP/IP, DNS, and DHCP
Lockheed Martin Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Lockheed Martin and has not been reviewed or approved by Lockheed Martin.
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Retirement Support — Retirement benefits are described as a standout element, with a strong 401(k) program and options like an employee stock purchase plan. Feedback suggests these features meaningfully enhance total compensation and long‑term financial security.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare coverage is portrayed as comprehensive from day one, with multiple plan options, mental health resources, and virtual care. Wellness supports such as on‑site services and preventive programs are also highlighted.
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Flexible Benefits — Work arrangements often include compressed schedules and telework, contributing to a favorable work‑life balance. Feedback suggests this flexibility is a key reason many view the overall package positively.
Lockheed Martin Insights
What We Do
Customer Focus, Innovation and Purpose are Built Into Everything We Do. Lockheed Martin. Your Mission is Ours ™. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.
