Systems Engineer – Agile Mission Development

Location: Columbia, Annapolis Junction, Maryland, Telework options
Security Clearance: TS//SCI with Polygraph
Compensation Range: $110,000 - $260,000

What You’ll Do 
As a Systems Engineer at Shadow, you’ll play a central role in shaping mission software and infrastructure across agile teams. Depending on level and assignment, you may be responsible for gathering and refining requirements, managing technical workflows, enabling iterative delivery, or leading engineering teams across development cycles. 

Our work supports a range of missions — some greenfield, others tightly integrated into legacy systems. Regardless of scope, each role is anchored in the same principle: deliver clarity, align technology with mission, and lead with purpose. 

We’re hiring across all experience levels (SE0–SE3), and we align responsibilities to the strengths and readiness of each engineer. 

Who This Might Be a Fit For 
This could be a great fit if you: 

• Think in systems, but never lose sight of the end user 

• Understand how to turn vague needs into testable requirements 

• Communicate clearly between developers, designers, product leads, and stakeholders 

• Have experience working in SCRUM or other agile development environments 

• Can lead or support engineering teams across iterations and releases 

• Are energized by cross-functional problem-solving and real-world impact 

Why Shadow 
At Shadow, systems engineering isn’t bureaucracy — it’s orchestration. We work in domains where clarity must be intentional, alignment is earned, and technical decisions shape operational success. Whether you’re early in your career or ready to lead, we provide the mission, autonomy, and support for you to build what matters. 

Interested? 
If this role sounds like a fit, we encourage you to reach out — we’re actively shaping teams for upcoming work. 

What Comes With It
You’ll have what you need to do your best work:

• Fully covered health insurance – medical, dental, vision

• Paid parental leave – 16 weeks if you give birth, 4 if your partner does

• Flexible leave – designed to support real life, not restrict it

• 401(k) – for your future

• Short- and long-term disability – because life happens

• Annual health stipend – if you opt out of our insurance

 

The Extras? They're Built In.
No points systems. No bean bags. Just clarity, autonomy, and a mission that matters.

Elite talent deserves elite support. Our benefits empower you to excel professionally and personally, recognizing your value through comprehensive health coverage, disability protection, and meaningful well-being initiatives. By investing in you, we ensure you have the tools, resources, and support you need to thrive—inside and outside of work. See our benefit plan here.
 

---

Shadow Strategies is committed to providing an environment where all individuals are treated with respect and fairness. We embrace individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.  

Our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, training, and compensation. We do not tolerate discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.  
 

Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.