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Model Based System Engineer Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

About the role We are hiring for multiple positions that are Model Based Systems Engineers at the ... Contribute to and support the System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR ...

Ground System Engineer

Aurora, CO ยท On-site +1

$99K - $225K/yr

Experience using a Model-Based Systems Engineering approach to manage system definitions and technical baselines * Knowledge of DoD 5000.01 and 5000.02 * Knowledge of systems engineering standards ...

Principal System Engineer - 846

Broomfield, CO ยท On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

Familiarity with Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) * Prior experience with laser-cooled, neutral atom, or atomic ion scientific apparatus or quantum computers * Prior experience with complex ...

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Model Based System Engineer information

See Denver, CO salary details

$55.1K

$130.9K

$171.9K

How much do model based system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for model based system engineer in Denver, CO is $130,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,900.00 and $161,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Model Based System Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectModel Based System EngineerSystems Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires systems engineering certifications, knowledge of modeling toolsOften holds a bachelor's or master's in engineering, with certifications like INCOSE
Work EnvironmentFocuses on system modeling, simulation, and design using specialized toolsInvolves system integration, testing, and requirements management
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, defense, automotive, and complex systems industriesWidely used across IT, manufacturing, and engineering sectors

While both roles require strong engineering backgrounds, Model Based System Engineers specialize in creating and analyzing system models to optimize design, whereas Systems Engineers focus on integrating and managing entire systems throughout their lifecycle.

What is a Model Based System Engineer?

A Model Based System Engineer (MBSE) is a professional who uses modeling techniques and tools to design, analyze, and manage complex systems throughout their lifecycle. Instead of relying solely on traditional document-based methods, MBSE professionals create digital models that represent the structure, behavior, and requirements of systems. This approach helps improve understanding, communication, and traceability among stakeholders, leading to more efficient and reliable system development. MBSE is commonly used in industries like aerospace, automotive, defense, and healthcare to manage complex engineering projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Model Based System Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Model Based System Engineer, you need a solid background in systems engineering principles, requirements analysis, and modeling languages like SysML, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Proficiency with modeling tools such as IBM Rhapsody, MagicDraw, or MATLAB/Simulink, and familiarity with systems engineering standards like INCOSE certification, are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are key soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient system design, clear stakeholder communication, and successful integration of complex systems in multidisciplinary environments.

How does a Model Based System Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Model Based System Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including software developers, hardware engineers, and project managers, to ensure system models accurately reflect requirements and constraints. They often facilitate communication by translating complex system behaviors into visual models that are easily understood by all stakeholders. Throughout the project lifecycle, they participate in design reviews, update models based on team feedback, and help validate that the final system meets its intended functionality. This collaborative approach helps reduce misunderstandings and streamlines the integration of various subsystems.
What cities near Denver, CO are hiring for Model Based System Engineer jobs? Cities near Denver, CO with the most Model Based System Engineer job openings:

Model Based Systems Engineer

Centil

Lafayette, CO โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

To be considered for this role, you must be a US Citizen with an active US government security clearance. Additionally, you must either live near or be willing to move to the Boulder, CO area.
About Centil
Centil, a Sabel Systems company, is a mission-focused engineering team supporting some of the highest-priority space defense programs in the U.S. Space Force portfolio, including missile defense and missile warning systems for Space Systems Command. Our work spans DevSecOps, CI/CD product development, and space-domain systems engineering, and our people are embedded directly in the programs they support.
In January 2026, Sabel Systems acquired Centil to expand its Advanced Engineering Services capabilities. For our team, that means access to a broader portfolio of programs, deeper corporate resources, and new career pathways - while preserving the technical ownership and small-team culture that defines how we work. It's an exciting time to join Centil: we're growing, the mission portfolio is expanding, and we're building the team that will define what comes next. If you are interested in learning more about Centil or our team, check out our website at www.centil.io.
About the role
We are hiring for multiple positions that are Model Based Systems Engineers at the mid-level and senior-level experience range in Boulder, CO. You will be working closely with a talented distributed multi-contractor team to assist in the design, implementation, and maintenance of critical defense systems through classic and modern Systems Engineering techniques. Additionally, we are tasked with improving the overall project management discipline of our clients by increasing collaboration and innovation and introducing techniques that promote adaptability and flexibility in the face of unpredictable circumstances, and that optimize return on investment expenditures.
This person should have training and experience in Systems Engineering practices to support the mission design work, process definition, and baseline management, with deep experience in Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE). Experience with Ground Based Radars (GBRs) missions to be significant bonuses for this role. This role will work at the intersection of requirements development, systems design, and integration testing in a fast-paced defense environment.
This role will be onsite in Boulder, CO.
What you'll do
  • Apply MBSE practices and tools to conduct requirements derivation (system, sub-system, element, component levels), analysis, and documentation supporting Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) definition and baseline design
  • Build complex digital twin to perform rapid trade studies and anticipate potential physical constraints
  • Contribute to and support the System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), and Test Readiness Review (TRR) processes
  • Participate in derivation and traceability of MBSE-led test driven design and contribute to associated technical documentation
  • Support development of an Integration and Test Prototype (ITP) throughout program lifecycle reviews
  • Work as an integrated team member applying Agile principles to manage and execute Work In Progress
  • Support integration, test, and Operational Acceptance (OA) activities across government-directed sites in later phases
  • Participate in proposal support activities as the program progresses through gates

Required Qualifications
  • Active DoD security clearance (Secret minimum; TS/SCI preferred)
  • 5+ years of experience in systems engineering, with demonstrated application of MBSE methodologies
  • Proficiency in MBSE tools (e.g., Cameo)
  • Experience with requirements derivation, management, and traceability (e.g., DOORS)
  • Experience with technical document baseline management (e.g., ARAS)
  • Experience with digital engineering tools (e.g., MATLAB, STK (Systems Tool Kit), Ansys ModelCenter)
  • Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, systems reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR), and defense program documentation standards
  • Experience with integration and test environments a plus
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field

Preferred/Bonus Qualifications
  • Background in radar, ground systems, space systems, or related DoD mission areas
  • Experience on Space Force or Missile Defense Agency programs
  • Familiarity with Agile systems engineering practices
  • Prior work on prototype development or operational acceptance programs

Other Company Requirements
In addition to job-specific requirements, Centil believes it is important for all employees to possess the following skills/characteristics:
  • Strong communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills. Ability to passionately deliver high-level messaging to various types of audiences-this will eventually include senior leaders. Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical personnel
  • Self-motivated individual who actively and independently seeks out opportunities for learning and development
  • Collaborates well; enjoys working as part of a team
  • DoD Secret or higher clearance is preferred. All applicants must be US citizens eligible for a US Government security clearance

Expected Salary Range
Depending on experience and skillset, most candidates will earn between $145,000 and $180,000 per year. Please note that the salary range is a general guideline only. We consider many factors when determining salaries including, but are not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education, training, certifications, key skills, and mission/customer familiarity. We combine these factors with market and business considerations to extend a job offer.
Benefits
Centil offers a comprehensive benefits package including the following:
  • Generous PTO for vacation, personal, or sick days
  • Ten (10) paid holidays per year: 8 fixed holidays, plus 2 additional Floating Holidays per year (taken at Employee's discretion)
  • Flex time and the ability to create your own schedule
  • Discretionary bi-annual bonus plan, based on individual and company performance
  • 401K retirement plan with immediately vested company contributions, no matching required
  • Healthcare coverage plan through an Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA)
  • Employer-paid Life, Long-Term Disability, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurances
  • Access to optional, employee-paid Life, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity insurances
  • Access to a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Paid training and conference attendance
  • Additional benefits, as needed, for significant life events: parental leave, bereavement leave, jury duty pay, military leave pay
  • One-time home office reimbursement
  • Phone plan reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services, supporting emotional health and well-being of employees and their families

Centil is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.