Most failed agency systems were bought against requirements nobody could test. This role sits on the agency's side of that problem: eliciting what the work actually requires, writing it down so it can be verified, and checking the delivered system against it.

What you will do

Run requirements elicitation with program staff who describe the same process three different ways, and reconcile it into something testable.
Produce architectures, interface definitions, and data flows that vendors can build to and reviewers can check.
Write acceptance criteria before build starts, in language a program manager can read without a translator.
Perform independent verification that a delivered system does what it was specified to do.
Trace requirements through to test cases and payment milestones, so complete is a contract term rather than a vendor judgement.
Support agencies through vendor demonstrations, keeping the comparison on the same basis for every bidder.

What we are looking for

Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Four or more years of systems engineering, requirements engineering, or technical business analysis.
Demonstrated ability to write requirements that can be tested rather than admired.
Experience with system integration across products from more than one vendor.
Clear technical writing.
Comfort telling a customer that a requirement as written cannot be verified.

Helpful to have

Experience on public-sector system replacements.
Familiarity with independent verification and validation practice.
INCOSE certification.
Background in one of public safety, utilities, transit, or health and human services.

Screening and eligibility

This position may require fingerprint-based background screening under the CJIS Security Policy before access to customer systems is granted. Some customer programs require United States citizenship. Eligibility is confirmed before assignment, not at application.

Compensation

HQT provides the pay scale for this position on request, and states it in any written offer.

How to apply

Send a resume to careers@hqt.org with the position title in the subject line.

HQT LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. HQT participates in E-Verify. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Systems Engineer