Systems Safety Engineer

About CoAspire

CoAspire (https://www.coaspire.com) is a cutting-edge defense manufacturing leader in Northern Virginia, specializing in the precision assembly of advanced weapons systems. With over twelve years of a legacy of innovation, we're at the forefront of building reliable, affordable mass weapons that protect and empower our nation’s warfighters. Our tight-knit team thrives in a collaborative environment where safety, quality, and work-life balance come first with a focus on professional growth at our new 27,000+ sq. ft. facility. Join us to make a tangible impact on mission-critical technology while enjoying Northern Virginia's vibrant community.

Position

You will serve as a Systems Safety Engineer on advanced missile programs, supporting multiple Chief Engineers and systems engineering team in the development and execution of the system safety program from early concept through production. This cross-functional role combines individual contribution with team support, collaborating closely with systems, software, electrical, mechanical, aerospace, and test engineers to identify hazards, assess and mitigate risks, and ensure the missile systems meet all performance, safety, and compliance standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain necessary stakeholder safety documentation, such as System Safety Program Plans (SSPP), in accordance with military specifications.
• Perform as-needed comprehensive hazard analyses to potentially include Preliminary Hazard Analysis (PHA), Functional Hazard Assessment (FHA), Subsystem Hazard Analysis (SSHA), System Hazard Analysis (SHA), and Fault Tree Analysis (FTA) to identify and evaluate safety risks.
• Conduct risk assessments using established severity and probability criteria, develop mitigation strategies, and track residual risks to acceptable levels.
• Support the development, allocation, traceability, and verification of safety-critical requirements in coordination with the overall systems engineering baseline.
• Prepare and deliver as-needed safety-related Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) items, Safety Assessment Reports (SARs), hazard tracking logs, and other technical documentation to the customer.
• Participate in technical reviews, safety working groups, and other customer reviews regarding safety analyses, recommendations, and risk acceptance support.
• Collaborate with design and engineering disciplines to integrate as-needed safety features into the system architecture and support failure mode effects and criticality analyses (FMECA) and trade studies.
• Interface directly with DoW customers, suppliers, and company leadership to align safety efforts with program needs, milestones, and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor test activities, support incident/accident investigations, and drive corrective actions to maintain safety compliance in conjunction with Quality Assurance teams.
• Serve as the primary interface with the Non-Nuclear Munitions Safety Board, Weapon Systems Explosives Safety Review Board, and other DoW munitions safety organizations.
• Support internal engineering boards as needed from safety perspective.

Required Skills

• 2–15 years of systems safety engineering experience in aerospace/defense.
• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Safety Engineering, or related field.
• Strong working knowledge of defense safety specifications and hands-on experience conducting system safety analyses and risk management.
• Broad systems engineering experience, including requirements management, hazard/risk analysis, verification planning, and technical documentation (CDRLs, SARs, etc.).
• Proven ability to work effectively in dynamic, fast-paced, team-oriented environments and support technical leadership on safety deliverables.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to independently execute tasks and drive progress on assigned safety program elements.
• Must be a US citizen and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret-level security clearance.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.

Desired Skills

• Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Safety Engineering, or related field.
• Experience with MBSE and any requirements management tools and safety analysis software.
• Experience in missile systems, guidance/navigation, ordnance/explosive safety, or defense/aerospace programs.
• Prior experience supporting a Chief Engineer or systems safety lead on major DoD programs.

Benefits

• Full benefits from day one: medical, dental and vision
• 401(k) with generous company match and immediate vesting
• PTO and Federal holidays