Communication Systems Engineering Department Associate 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 the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration.   With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions.  Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

The Communication Systems Engineering Department (CSED) performs analysis, simulation, and laboratory activities to design and evaluate communication systems, signals, and signal processing algorithms for our customers. Key technical areas for the department include engineering communication systems, analyzing link performance, developing digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, and designing complex simulations. The department also focuses on payload hardware design, space and terrestrial communication architectures, and requirements verification, alongside expertise in waveform design, position, navigation, timing systems, and electronic warfare.

As an Associate Director, you will be providing organizational and technical leadership to the department, as well as apply your technical expertise to develop solutions for a multitude of US government, civil, commercial, and international customers. This role partners closely with the CSED Director in the department’s growth including business development, hiring, team building, and integration of department technical capabilities.

Work Model: This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing  

•  Strategize and co-Lead the development and implementation of organizational strategy and objectives for the Communication Systems Engineering Department (CSED)
•  Proactively engage with customers to understand and address their technical challenges
•  Create and present technical proposals for the acquisition of new business opportunities that both address customer needs and position our organization as a leader with our customers.
•  Lead the execution of projects and serve as the primary liaison between internal teams, customers, and external partners to ensure efficient resource utilization and mission success
•  Identify gaps and opportunities for research and development to enhance the organization competitive edge and technical capabilities
•  Accelerate the expansion of departmental laboratory facilities and technical resources to meet evolving customer and industry demands
•  Lead recruitment efforts to attract, hire, and retain the top experts in our industry
•  Partner and collaborate closely with department and division leadership team
•  Other managerial duties include resource management, performance management and team development, and budget management. Additional responsibilities may be assigned as our organization evolves

What You Need to be Successful  

Minimum Requirements 

• B.S. degree from an accredited university in engineering, science, or mathematics
• Ten or more years of relevant industry technical experience
• Two or more years of relevant leadership experience
• Experience with RF communication systems
• Understanding of several communication systems and digital signal processing concepts (e.g., modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel effects, and link performance)
• Proficiency with physical layer (PHY) modeling & simulation (MATLAB, Python, and/or C++) 
• The position requires the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance and additional accesses, which is issued by the US government. US 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: 

•  M.S. or Ph.D. in in either Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipli