Autonomy Project Leader

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.

Job Summary 

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. 

The Vehicle Engineering Department is part of the Vehicle Systems Division, the premier satellite and launch vehicle technical organization within the Aerospace Corporation. Vehicle Engineering continues to expand in areas of assembly, integration, and test support; modeling and analysis of multidiscipline systems; and advanced autonomy.

Work Model  

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, offering a hybrid work model that combines regular onsite work and remote flexibility as the business needs allow. 

What You’ll Be Doing  

• You will provide leadership to the advanced autonomous system goals and direct support to a variety of programs 

• S/he will work closely with customers to identify their support needs and fostering lasting relationships that support the entire design and operational life cycle of critical space systems 

• Establishing Vehicle Engineering Department subject matter expertise by helping to grow the needed skills and mentoring junior staff 

• Providing direct technical support to a variety of space programs with a focus on advanced autonomy and identifying new opportunities to provide support to our customers 

• You will be responsible for supporting ongoing research into advanced autonomous systems, including those incorporating artificial intelligence into their architecture 

What You Need to be Successful  

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field or equivalent is required  

• 8 years of applicable professional or educational experience is required 

• Expertise with at least one spacecraft discipline in, dynamics, control, or artificial intelligence 

• Experience leading technical teams to solve complex problems and identify analytical or testing verification processes 

• Strong background in satellite or launch systems 

• Sound communication skills with an ability to explain complex technical issues, activities, architectures and designs, and operations to staff and customers with limited autonomy background 

• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment on multiple projects 

• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. 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: 

• Advanced degree in a STEM field or equivalent is preferred 

• Space or launch vehicle simulation or integrated AI experience 

• Experience with hardware-software interfacing and communications, or embedded systems 

• Prior management experience or willingness to lead small teams 

• A current and active TS/SCI security clearance with counter-intelligence polygraph, which is issued by the U.S. government is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. 

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