Section Manager – Flight Controls Manager

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.

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; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.  

The Flight Control Section of the Guidance Analysis Department provides support for launch vehicle, missile systems, and missile defense systems for a wide range of customers including the Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC), the Missile Defense Agency, and other civil customers (e.g. NASA). We are looking for a Flight Controls Section Manager (Guidance, Navigation & Control) to provide technical leadership, mentoring, and career guidance for members of the section. 

Work Model 

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA that combines 4 to 5 regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow. 

What You’ll Be Doing  

• Promoting the use and application of advanced flight control techniques for analysis and simulation of GNC systems 

• Fostering the creation and use of new tools to sustain and advance section expertise 

• Providing task planning, schedule, and labor estimates for proposed technical work assignments, advising supervision of resources needs and capabilities, and providing inputs for budgetary planning. 

• Participating in day-to-day technical activities and task accomplishments, monitoring and evaluating processes, techniques, and performance, and reviewing documentation and delivery of services. 

• Working closely with customers to coordinate tasking, report progress, resolve technical issues, and assure project success, and initiating and coordinating exchanges of technical information with other work groups and organizations. 

• Recommending staffing needs, reassignments, transfers, and terminations, assisting evaluation of potential staff additions, and conducting performance reviews and providing recommendations on performance improvements, career development, and promotional actions. 

• Participating