Sr. Propulsion Engineer, Casual

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 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 Propulsion Department within VSD develops and evaluates cutting-edge propulsion technologies and systems for current and future government and commercial applications. The motto of the department is “We Deliver”; we work across the space enterprise and deliver timely, objective, and actionable technical advice so that programs can execute efficiently toward mission success.  As a Senior Propulsion Engineer (MTS Retiree Casual 3) in the Propulsion Department, you will have the opportunity to support our NASA, DoD and NRO customers to ensure the success of high-priority missions with challenging propulsion requirements.

This is a part-time casual position located in El Segundo, California is expected to primarily be a remote work model with onsite support and travel as business needs require. Casuals are expected to work infrequently and less then 1000 hours per year.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Serve as a highly proactive advisory specialist, understanding issues and formulating options/recommendations, while working closely with management and team members across other offices and working groups

• Integrate with subject matter experts and stakeholders

• Develop periodic status reports and presentations

• Develop special reports/discussions of findings, issues, conclusions, recommendations, and risk assessments

• Perform other duties for the customer as required

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science degree or advanced degree in engineering, science, or another related STEM discipline 

• 12 or more years of increasingly responsible professional experience, including experience in spacecraft propulsion system analysis and engineering

• Ability to effectively utilize oral and written communication to express technical concepts and recommendations to personnel at all technical and managerial levels 

• Demonstrated initiative and ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers

• Demonstrated technical capability in programmatic assessments

• This position may require the 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

• Position may require occasional travel, approx. 15%

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Advanced degree or advanced degree in engineering, science, or another related STEM discipline  

• 20 or more years of increasingly responsible experience with spaceflight propulsion systems

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)

$0.00 - $480.00

Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we