xLab Applied Edge Computing Principal Engineer

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.

The Aerospace Corporation’s Experiment Lab (xLab) develops prototypes, instruments, pathfinders, and demonstration systems to address our customers’ most challenging problems swiftly. We conceptualize innovative solutions and deliver impactful products for ground, space, and everything in between. We are seeking a Principal Engineer with a passion for design, a commitment to teamwork, and a desire to solve today’s challenges.

The Principal Engineer will provide advanced technical expertise and develop solutions for complex problems that could benefit from applied autonomy in space. They will drive innovation and the development of new technologies, ensuring high standards of quality and collaboration with cross-functional teams to align technical efforts with business objectives.

What You’ll Be Doing

In this role you will support the growing number of deliverable prototypes leveraging computing at the edge. Working closely with customers, xLab and OCTO management, key aspects of your role:

• Develop and Integrate Advanced AI/ML Systems: Develop and manage the execution of a roadmap to achieve broader customer base of missions leveraging Applied Autonomy.

• Prototype Advancement and Industry Leadership: Integrate edge autonomy computing with xLab's prototypes, and position Aerospace as a leader in applied autonomy by advancing from ground test to flight-ready systems.

• Architecture Design: Lead the growth of design and development of satellite and payload architectures, along with on-board computing hardware and software, to support autonomous operations.

• Verification and Validation: Work with ETG SMEs to leverage advanced simulation environments and hardware in the loop test facilities to ensure robustness of prototypes.

• DevOps and Ecosystem Development: Establish and manage DevOps practices for continuous development and maintenance of on-board autonomy, while creating a collaborative ecosystem involving internal teams, government labs, industry partners, and academic researchers.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics or a related technical discipline.

• 16 years of experience in the aerospace industry or related field, with a significant focus on AI/ML systems and autonomous operations.

• Proven track record of developing and integrating advanced AI/ML systems, including the creation and execution of roadmaps for broader mission applications.

• Demonstrated ability to lead the design and development of complex systems and guide teams through the entire lifecycle from concept to flight-ready systems.

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to position an organization as an industry leader in applied autonomy.

• Proven experience in creating and managing a collaborative ecosystem involving internal teams, government labs, industry partners, and academic researchers.

• Experience working with and troubleshooting space flight hardware with fast acquisition cycles.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S. citizenship is required.

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics or a related technical discipline.

• 20 or more years of experience in the aerospace industry or related fields, with a significant focus on AI/ML systems and autonomous operations.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. 

(Min - Max)

$203,800 - $305,600

Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: ever