Sr. Data Architect

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 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 Information Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD) is a unique engineering division partnering across the full space enterprise to advance next-generation digital solutions and software-enabled mission capabilities. With customers spanning the DoD, Intelligence Community (IC), civil and commercial space, ISCD blends expertise in software architecture, AI/ML systems, data platforms and architecture, advanced cloud and edge infrastructure, cybersecurity, and full-stack engineering through mission-focused, collaborative, multi-disciplinary teams. These teams leverage hands-on prototyping and applied R&D to support customer concepts, digital architectures, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies into real-world mission environments. 

The Data Platforms and Architectures Department (DPAD) within the ISCD organization is looking for a Senior Data Architect to lead the design and implementation of an AI-ready data platform that operates across distributed, multi-domain environments. This role will define and deliver scalable architectures that enable data federation, interoperability, and advanced analytics/AI capabilities across mission systems. It involves direct interaction with our government stakeholders and mission sponsors, translating their needs and requirements into the delivery of data products.   

The ideal candidate is both strategic and hands-on, with deep experience in data architecture solutions (e.g., data mesh, data fabric, etc.), and a proven ability to drive enterprise-level transformation. They will be responsible for driving programs from concept through architecture, delivery, and operational adoption. This includes taking ownership of outcomes related to architecture, execution, risk management, and delivery, all within a national security and mission-critical context. 

This is a full-time , onsite position based in Chantilly, VA or El Segundo, CA.   

What You’ll Be Doing – Sr. Data Architect 

• Define and lead the architecture for an AI-ready data platform supporting real-time, batch, and streaming workloads 

• Design distributed data architectures across cloud, on-prem, and edge environments 

• Establish multi-domain data federation strategies enabling unified access without unnecessary data movement 

• Develop data mesh or data fabric frameworks including domain ownership, interoperability, and governance