Director of Engineering - Communication Systems and Payloads

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! 

Join the Radio Frequency (RF) and Optical Communications (RFOCS) team and be at the forefront of payload development for the space enterprise. We are a dynamic team of problem-solvers tackling the toughest challenges in space communication and RF payloads across a diverse set of national security, civil, and commercial space missions. If you’re passionate about communication technologies, transmit your application to us and help shape the future of space connectivity. 

 
We are seeking a Director of Engineering to lead the Communication Payload, Command, & Telemetry Department (CPCTD), a nation-wide team of experts shaping the future of communication and navigation payloads. CPCTD provides “cradle-to-grave" communications and navigation payload systems engineering support, including rapid concept design studies, requirements and CONOPs development; integration and test support; performance assessment and requirements verification; and on-orbit satellite support. Reliable and affordable high-performance communications systems are fundamental to the success of both current and next-generation space architectures, and CPCTD plays an essential role in helping make those systems a reality. 

This role provides organizational and technical leadership in communication systems engineering. You will have an opportunity to grow and shape the department’s support across the rapidly evolving space enterprise, build relationships with a broad set of customers, and coordinate with a diverse set of communications and remote sensing domain experts within MPD. 

Work Model: This role will be primarily onsite due to the nature of our work and customers.  

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Lead a National Engineering Team and Drive Innovation 

• Provide leadership to a team of 20+ engineers dedicated to providing communication and navigation payload systems engineering support, technology development, and mission assurance across the DoD and