Space Systems Researcher / Engineer

 

The Space Systems Analysis & Test Group identifies gaps and sets goals to ensure robust U.S. space systems for military, intelligence, civil and commercial purposes. This work involves understanding the attributes and vulnerabilities of U.S. space-related systems, including the sensors and networks used to detect, track, and characterize objects in space; the satellites that provide space-based services; and the infrastructure used to control and operate these satellites. We aim to provide senior leaders in the U.S. space community the understanding to make decisions regarding the U.S. space architecture. A central component of this effort involves consideration of how adversaries might try to exploit U.S. vulnerabilities; assessing the risk of exploitation involves technically evaluating the knowledge and resources required to mount a credible threat against our systems. This work requires detailed modeling of optical, radar, and propulsion systems; novel ideas for new space systems and on-orbit operations; and understanding the timelines, architectures, and decision-making processes for maintaining awareness of the space environment. In addition, the group pursues potentially game-changing, innovative ideas for remote sensing of space and the Earth. This part of our work involves sensor design, signal and image processing as well as space object and environmental phenomenology. The group seeks researchers from the physical sciences, including physics, mathematics, and chemistry, as well as from a wide range of applied disciplines (including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, aeronautics, astronautics and computer science).

 

Who we are and what we do:

The Space Systems Analysis and Test Group aims to solve our nation’s most demanding space-related challenges backed by validated analysis, prototyping, and field demonstrations.  We work with senior leaders in the US Space Force, Air Force, and Intelligence Community to provide unbiased analysis and innovative solutions that directly shape U.S. national defense strategy. 

Our technical staff are skilled scientists and engineers with deep and broad space systems experience, eager to be on the leading edge of technology that will chart our nation’s future in space.  All staff quickly grasp new technologies, dissect complex problems, and communicate solutions to a spectrum of audiences. 

What will you do?

 

Staff members often fill different roles simultaneously for multiple programs and are encouraged to diversify their expertise. Some examples of current Technical Staff areas of expertise include:

• Computational Physics – Develop modeling software for in-house astrodynamics toolkits. Topics include satellite propagation, guidance laws, sensors & observation, state estimation, etc.
• Hardware Prototyping – Design and produce developmental hardware systems and sensors.  Conduct measurement campaigns using prototypes in support of analysis studies.
• Program Management – Communicate with sponsors to develop a technical strategy to solve research questions. Coordinate and manage a team of staff at a variety of technical levels to implement solutions.
• Signal Processing – Design tools and pipelines to process observational data from optical, radar, and other instruments.  Analyze collected data and compare to theoretical models.

Candidates are not expected to have previous experience in these areas, but should have the technical background sufficient to learn them. A successful candidate will have a strong technical background that can be leveraged for broad analysis, simulation, and testing capabilities. The highly collaborative and multidisciplinary nature of the group provides opportunities for Technical Staff to work on a variety of projects and explore new interests as they develop.

What we require:

• PhD in a STEM field (including, but not limited to: Physics, Math, Computer Science, Aerospace, Astrodynamics, Engineering, etc.)
  • OR Master’s degree with 5 or more years relevant experience
• Experience with an object-oriented programming language.
• Demonstrated ability to think broadly and develop unique insights.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex concepts and form clear, concise narratives.