Space Network Systems Architect

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 Communication Technologies and Engineering Division (CTED) represents the disciplines of communications, networking, and PNT (Position, Navigation, and Timing) in support of space missions, along with their enabling technologies. In our domain, CTED projects comprise all aspects, from architectures to prototypes to implementation, theoretical to hands-on.  Our engineers work directly with corporate and U.S. Government customers to ensure robust and resilient communications.  

The Aerospace Corporation’s Network Systems Department (NSD) is seeking an innovative Space Network Systems Architect with a strong background in networking architecture and design.  You will be leading and supporting the development of future network concepts, architectures, requirements, prototyping, performing network trade studies, and technology demonstrations.  You will also be expected to perform network analyses to optimize the overall performance of terrestrial, satellite, launch vehicle, and ground-based communication systems. The implementation of optical communication networking physical testbeds that require configuration of end-point appliances, switches, routers, and firewalls is also within scope. A qualified candidate will possess an in-depth understanding of the latest networking and enterprise computing technologies, the ability to develop new concepts and solve the toughest problems for our customers. 

Work Model: This role has some flexibility for a hybrid work arrangement; however, most of the work is on-site due to the classified nature of the work. 

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Lead and participate in multi-disciplinary engineering teams in the development and analysis of future network architectures, also assist in defining future requirements to achieve mission success 

• Direct development and implementation of advanced network protocols, routing, and QoS algorithms and architectures 

• Run various systems engineering tasks and projects through systems architecture definition, development, analysis, modeling & simulation, and prototype development/validation 

• Evaluate and develop novel communication engineering technologies 

• Analyze and simulate complex network architectures and protocols 

• Provide independent technical leadership, mentorship, and direction to less experienced staff 

• Coordinate tasks and participate in technical meetings for DoD, IC, and Civil & Commercial customers working closely with members of a diverse team comprising military officers and government civilians, prime contractors, SE&I contractors and other FFRDCs 

• Lead specialized technical studies and internal research and development projects to develop the next generation of Space and Ground network concep