Jacob Sparks
Harmony,NC
Summary
Systems Engineer with expertise in requirements development, verification planning, and system architecture for complex communication systems. Proven ability to bridge RF engineering depth with system-level design, interface definition, and cross-functional integration.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work History
RF Systems Engineer
NASA / Relative Dynamics (remote)
Houston, Texas
12.2021 - Current
- Led requirements development, traceability, and verification planning for multiple Artemis systems including Gateway Communications, Visiting Vehicle Communications, and Lunar Communications architectures
- Managed requirements in DOORS (DNG), ensuring traceability from system-level requirements through verification and validation activities
- Developed and reviewed ICDs and IRDs, coordinating interfaces between cross-functional teams and external stakeholders
- Drove verification strategy and test planning, authoring test plans, procedures, and reports to support system validation and certification
- Delivered technical briefings and proposals to senior leadership and customers, translating complex system behavior into actionable decisions
Systems Engineer
CACI International Inc
High Point, North Carolina
12.2019 - 12.2021
- Designed and specified wireless system architectures for radio access networks, optimizing coverage, reliability, and throughput
- Performed system-level modeling and simulation (Mentum Planet, Atoll) to support architecture decisions and performance validation
- Developed signal processing and physical-layer models for radar, LTE, and 5G systems
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align design implementation with system-level objectives
Electrician
United States Marine Corps
Camp Lejeune, NC
04.2011 - 04.2015
- Maintained and repaired electrical systems in both garrison and deployed environments
- Operated in high-reliability, mission-critical conditions, reinforcing disciplined troubleshooting and execution under pressure
Education
Bachelor of Science - Electrical Engineering
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC 08.2015 - 12.2019
Skills
- Requirements Management (DOORS / DNG)
- Verification & Validation (V&V)
- Interface Control Documents (ICDs) / IRDs
- RF Systems Engineering & Link Analysis
- Propagation Modeling & Simulation
- Test Planning & Technical Documentation
Timeline
RF Systems Engineer
NASA / Relative Dynamics (remote)
12.2021 - Current
Systems Engineer
CACI International Inc
12.2019 - 12.2021
Bachelor of Science - Electrical Engineering
North Carolina State University
08.2015 - 12.2019
Electrician
United States Marine Corps
04.2011 - 04.2015