Intermediate Systems Engineer

CTEC is a leading technology firm that provides modernization, digital transformation, and application development services to the U.S. Federal Government. Headquartered in McLean, VA, CTEC has over 300 team members working on mission-critical systems and projects for agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, Internal Revenue Service, and the Office of Personnel Management. The work we do effects millions of U.S. citizens daily as they interact with the systems we build. Our best-in-class commercial solutions, modified for our customers’ bespoke mission requirements, are enabling this future every day.

The Company has experienced rapid growth over the past 3 years and recently received a strategic investment from Main Street Capital Corporation (NYSE: MAIN). In addition to our recent growth in Federal Civilian agencies, we are seeking to expand our capabilities in cloud development and footprint in national-security focused agencies within the Department of Defense and U.S. Intelligence Community.

We are currently seeking a Systems Engineer (Intermediate) to join our team.

Position Summary

The Systems Engineer (Intermediate) is responsible for performing systems analysis, evaluation, design, integration, documentation, and implementation of complex applications and enterprise systems. This role requires a solid understanding of administrative and technical principles to support system development and engineering initiatives across the organization. This position supports the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) with their IBM mainframe-based civilian payroll system.

The Systems Engineer participates in all phases of the system development lifecycle (SDLC), with emphasis on planning, analysis, evaluation, integration, testing, verification, validation, and acceptance activities, including Independent Verification & Validation (IV&V) and Developmental Test & Evaluation (DT&E). The position involves applying technical and business principles to support the development of automated engineering solutions for complex operational requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform systems analysis, design, integration, testing, implementation, and maintenance activities for enterprise applications and systems.
• Participate in all phases of the system development lifecycle (SDLC).
• Support planning, requirements gathering, system evaluation, integration, testing, and acceptance activities.
• Analyze business and technical requirements and assist in developing automated engineering solutions.
• Collaborate with developers, engineers, testers, and stakeholders to support project objectives and system enhancements.
• Prepare and maintain technical documentation, reports, and system specifications.
• Assist in troubleshooting system issues and identifying performance improvement opportunities.
• Support software testing, configuration management, and audit readiness activities.
• Ensure assigned tasks are completed in accordance with quality and compliance standards.
• Analyze and Action Requests and System Change Requests, developing resolution plans and documenting outcomes in configuration management system.
• Monitor production jobs and ABEND (unplanned program termination) codes using mainframe tools such as TSO, ISPF, SDSF, and JES.
• Participate in COOP testing and enhancement activities; assist in maintaining system documentation

Required Qualifications

Candidates must possess intermediate-level hands-on experience (2–3 years) with the following:

• Requirements Analysis
• Software Design
• IDMS database
• COBOL programming

Preferred Qualifications

Intermediate-level hands-on experience (2–3 years) with the following is preferred:

• JCL
• System-to-System file sharing and interfaces
• Oracle
• COGNOS
• JavaScript
• Broadcom Endevor
• Software Testing Strategies
• Configuration Management Strategies
• Audit Support and Assurance
• REXX scripting language
• z/OS mainframe operating environment; IBM mainframe tools: TSO, ISPF, SDSF, JES
• PVCS Version Control; Enterprise Architect (EA) tool
• Assembler programming (IBM mainframe)
• Governmental accounting or financial systems (e.g., civilian payroll processing)

Desired Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of systems engineering methodologies and SDLC processes.
• Ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional technical teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience supporting enterprise or government system environments is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Exposure to 24/7 production mainframe operations or on-call support environments.
• Familiarity with DoD/DFAS security requirements and CAC-enabled environments.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related field preferred.

Clearance: Active Secret clearance required.

If you are looking for a fun and challenging environment with talented, motivated people to work with, CTEC is the right place for you. In addition to employee salary, we offer an array of employee benefits including:

• Paid vacation & Sick leave
• Health insurance coverage
• Career training
• Performance bonus programs
• 401K contribution & Employer Match
• 11 Federal Holidays