Mission Integration and Systems Engineering Systems Director

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

The Aerospace Corporation Defense Systems Group (DSG) serves as the technical and programmatic advisor to the United States Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) for acquiring, developing, and fielding capabilities for the United States Space Command and joint warfighter, as well as to maintain America’s comprehensive military advantage in space.

As Director of the new Mission Integration and Systems Engineering directorate you will play a pivotal role in the USG’s transition to a new Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) MEO/LEO Architecture.  You and your team will focus on integration of the SSC Space Sensing (SN) MTC MEO & GEO WFOV programs into the broader missile warning, tracking, & defense enterprise. Additionally you’ll be responsible for providing systems engineering support to SNR with a focus on strategic guidance of MTC program execution and evolution and development of roadmaps for future integration and acquisition. This job entails providing both technical and programmatic support to acquisition as well as outreach to external stakeholders and operators to align the MEO Missile Track Custody program toward achieving Initial and ultimately full Warfighting Capability.

To further our partnership with SN in this area, we are seeking an agile, motivated leader to serve as the first Systems Director to support this expanded mission area. This position manages Aerospace technical support to senior officers within SSC/SN and will coordinate with stakeholders from across the MWTD enterprise including the Space Development Agency, Missile Defense Agency, Intelligence Community, and more.

Work Model: This position is located on-site in El Segundo, CA. Hybrid support can be arranged with coordination between management and USSF leadership.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead, develop, recruit, and mentor a high-performing technical staff
• Provide direct support to senior-level customers, staff, and Aerospace management, to identify and fulfill customer needs, consistent with the Aerospace FFRDC role
• Identifying and directing innovation and risk reduction activities in support of the USG pivot toward proliferated Missile Warning, Tracking, Defense sensors
• Build and maintain relationships across the Missile Warning, Tracking, & Defense Enterprise, facilitate the exchange of information and analysis, and direct research tasks to address future space intelligence needs with effective assessments & recommendations.
• Manage organizational resources and utilize best practices in a manner that meets customer needs, complies with customer and Aerospace polices and fulfills the requirements of the relevant Aerospace contracts

What You Need to be Successful 

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or other relevant field
• 12 or more years of progressively more responsible experience in engineering or other technical roles
• Experience in multiple engineering and science disciplines, such as research and development, space and ground systems acquisition, systems engineering and systems integration
• Demonstrated agility and ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced customer environment with a high degree of uncertainty, and a success-driven approach to tackle fast-paced and dynamic challenges
• Understanding of the Aerospace role and the guidelines for appropriate use of an FFRDC
• Demonstrated ability to build strong teams to meet customer needs
• This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• An advanced degree in Science, Engineering, or Mathematics
• Experience with the OPIR and Missile Warning, Tracking, & Defense Enterprise
• Experience with rapid proliferated acquisition programs
• Strong customer-oriented attitude with outstanding skil