Freelance Distributed Systems Engineer Jobs in Texas

About The Role:

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking a Systems Engineer to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location.

The Systems Engineer is collaborating within a fast-paced, customer-focused test and experimentation team. This role requires deep experience in designing, developing, integrating, and testing complex software and hardware systems in mission-critical environments. This role applies interdisciplinary engineering principles to ensure that hardware, software, networks, and mission systems operate effectively, securely, and in compliance with Department of Defense standards and regulations.

Clearance & Location Requirements:

• All applicants must currently possess an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
• This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 5 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA location.

Key Responsibilities
What You Will Do:

• Support full systems engineering lifecycle including requirement analysis, system design, integration, validation, test, deployment and operational support of complex systems supporting DoD and Navy operational and developmental testing.
• Conduct architecture analysis for distributed combat systems (hardware/software/network).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including program management, cybersecurity, software development, hardware engineering, logistics, and test organizations.
• Develop and approve test plans, procedures, and operational methodologies for complex systems and distributed architectures.
• Analyze test results and provide clear, actionable assessments against requirements, including recommendations for corrective actions.
• Participate in technical reviews (MRA, MRR, DAWG, TWEG, etc.) and support government and stakeholder briefings.
• Support model-based systems engineering (MBSE) artifacts including SysML diagrams and interface models.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Who You Are (Required):

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or related STEM field or equivalent relevant professional full-time experience.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience in systems engineering or integration roles.
• Strong system integration and test experience, including distributed and tactical systems.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering processes, including requirements traceability and configuration management.
• Experience leading or coordinating test execution and integration activities across functional teams
• Experience supporting U.S. Navy combat systems integration, testing, or sustainment.
• Strong understanding of real-time distributed systems, radar systems, and weapon control logic
• Ability to adapt to rapidly changing priorities and execute multiple concurrent assignments.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

What Makes You Stand Out:

• Experience with Navy surface warfare systems and tactical applications (e.g., Aegis Weapon System, SSDS, CEC, Link-16).
• Support integration of radar, systems (IFF), and weapon systems (e.g., RAM, ESSM, CIWS) into an automated self-defense architecture
• Develop and maintain interface control documents (ICDs) across fire control and command subsystems
• Experience working with land-based test site events and at-sea Combat System Ship Qualification Trials (CSSQT)
• Perform trade studies evaluating performance, latency, cybersecurity posture, and interoperability.
• Experience running, testing, and troubleshooting large-scale or distributed DoD software systems.
• Experience supporting rapid prototyping, experimentation, and capability demonstrations.
• Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).

If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.
Job Benefits
Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):

IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:

• Generous benefits package
• Competitive PTO
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
• 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
• Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
• Professional Development Resources
• Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
• Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards
• Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches

EEO Statement:

IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.