Systems Director- Space Enterprise Evolution

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 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 spacecraft, launch, ground, and cyber systems for civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll join a cadre 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 carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

The Space Enterprise Evolution Directorate is an organization dedicated to evolving capabilities for space by providing independent and objective research and strategic analysis to decision makers. The Directorate is part of the Civil Systems Group in The Aerospace Corporation, a nonprofit organization that advises the government on complex space enterprise and systems engineering problems.

We are seeking a highly motivated, experienced space professional to join us as a Systems Director to lead teams advancing space capabilities in the national interest. The successful candidate will grow and strengthen the network of organizations and people working on emerging areas, including cislunar ecosystems, space traffic coordination, in-space servicing, assembly and manufacturing, and space cybersecurity. The position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the expanding future of the space enterprise including space exploration, commercial ventures, space safety and sustainability. The position informs and shapes programs, projects, policies and strategies and technical capabilities and capacity to address emerging needs across the space enterprise.

This is a full-time hybrid position located in Crystal City, Virginia. The work model is 3-4 days/weekly onsite, allowing for 1-2 days of telework.

What You’ll Be Doing

• You will lead and inspire a team of teams to align emerging needs with emerging capabilities.
• The scope of the position includes understanding and informing policy, technical solutions, and organizational teaming.
• Communicate findings on pressing topics related to US and Allies government organizations, commercial space sector, regulations, space technology innovation, environmental, safety and sustainability issues facing the space industry.
• People management responsibilities include but not limited to recruitment, development and performance management, managing compensation and rewards, and driving engagement and retention of team.
• Lead in-depth research and analysis on range of space topics, including international competition, technology developments, regulatory frameworks, international agreements, and legislative developments.
• Monitor and track space technology, policy, and government program trends, nationally and internationally, to provide timely insights to the organization and develop frameworks to address future issues.
• Communicate space science, security, technology, policy issues, findings, and potential solutions through papers, conference presentations, panel discussions, social media, and video.
• Lead the organization of public events, panel discussions, and speakers to expand awareness and understanding of pressing space sector issues and challenges.
• Lead and conduct time-sensitive strategic analysis at the intersection of technology and policy for senior government and private sector leaders.
• Collaborate with internal teams and experts at the Aerospace Corporation to shape strategic approaches to technical and national priority issues.
• Build upon an area of prior space capability and policy expertise and stay informed about the latest advancements in space technology and their implications to policy.
• Engage with government agencies, industry partners, and other stakeholders in the space enterprise.
• Foster continued professional development and a constru