2025 Space Vehicle Concept Design 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.

Enterprise Effects Division Description

The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace’s strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space-enabled mission effects.

Vehicle Ground Concepts Department Description

The Vehicle and Ground Concepts Department (VGCD) in EED provides space vehicle and ground system preliminary/conceptual design; trade and architecture analysis, modeling, process development and leadership expertise; and tool development in support of conceptual design activities across the space enterprise. As a member of VGCD, you will be designing innovative space vehicle and ground segment solutions to meet the most pressing mission needs of our US Space Force, Intelligence Community, NASA, NOAA, and commercial/international customers.

What You’ll Be Doing

As an Associate Member of the Technical Staff, you will be:

• Participating in early-stage design studies for spacecraft concepts; types of studies can include both small, individual efforts as well as larger, multidisciplinary teams of subject matter experts.
• Supporting continuous development, maintenance, and improvement of the tools and models that are used during spacecraft design and analysis activities.
• Developing as a subject matter expert in spacecraft-level systems engineering to support execution of customer programs.
• Supporting the department in establishing similar capabilities for ground segment concept design, and understanding the integrated perspective of space and ground
• Establishing strong working relationships with government, program office, and contractor personnel as well as other members of Aerospace’s engineering group.

Work Model

• This position will follow an in-person work model with a minimum of 4 days per week of onsite work required in Aerospace’s campuses in El Segundo, CA; Colorado Springs, CO; or Chantilly, VA.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum requirements for MTS:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited program in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, Systems Engineering or similar discipline. (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months) 
• 0-1 year of industry experience
• Relevant internship and/or academic experience in spacecraft system design and/or ground segment design
• Knowledge and/or relevant coursework in spacecraft subsystems and systems engineering topics.
• Experience with concurrent engineering tools, processes, and methodologies.
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills and ability to excel in a collaborative environment; proficiency with office and collaboration tools, such as MS Office.
• Ability to travel domestically, on an occasional basis.
• Willingness and ability to obtain a security clearance (TS/SSBI)
• Transcripts required for this position

How You Can Stand Out

• Advanced knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and system engineering topics.
• Advanced knowledge of concurrent engineering methodologies, processes, and tools.
• Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools, and programming languages, including one or more of the following: MATLAB, Python, Simulink, STK, C++, VBA, SolidWorks, Cameo, or similar.
• Strong, demonstrated personal initiative to seek out work, establish relationships throughout organizations, and identify and correct issues as they arise.

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