Sr. Space Systems Engineer

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 National Systems Group serves as the technical advisor to the Intelligence Community and its mission partners involved in the collection and distribution of national and tactical intelligence, including electronics programs, advanced technologies, ground and communications, imagery programs, and systems engineering and launch. 

As a Senior Space Systems Engineer (Sr. Project Engineer) within Electronic Programs Division’s Adaptive Mission Systems Office, you will support the development, integration, and deployment of novel reconnaissance systems.  You will investigate new technologies, perform system analysis, conduct solution architecting and coordinate the integration of space and ground capabilities to ensure end to end closure of the missions.

 Work Model:

This position requires 100% on site work in Chantilly, VA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Coordinate with Government, SETA, and contractor teams to develop and field classified reconnaissance systems.
• Guide ground element design to ensure end-to-end integration with the mission stakeholders and enterprise.
• Participate in system level trades; advise government customers on system risks and opportunities. 
• Develop and present technical and acquisition approaches to successfully bring trades to closure.
• Work with stakeholders to develop, assess and manage system requirements..
• Support verification and validation, and system engineering control processes to enable the system deployment, and successful transition to operations.
• Identify risk areas and mitigation efforts to meet mission objectives.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• BS degree in engineering, mathematics, physical sciences or other technical area.
• 12 or more years of progressively responsible experience.
• Experience in systems engineering, program management, or other space related technical fields.
• Experience coordinating and leading tasks.
• System’s Engineering and/or Mission Assurance experience.
• Experience supporting a dynamic Program Office environment with a mix of government, FFRDC, and SETA personnel.
• This position requires travel, approximately one trip per month.
• This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph, which is issued by the US 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 technical subject area (engineering, science or math).
• Previous experience in command-and-control system development and end-to-end integration.
• Familiarity with SIGINT systems, architectures, and missions.
• Systems Engineering experience in the development of risk tolerant operational systems.
• Experience using model based systems engineering (MBSE).
• Experience in RF communications, cloud architecture, and/or software

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 have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change   
• Engage with Impact   
• Foster Innovation   
• Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligib