Astronautical Engineer - Space Systems, Simulation, and Public Policy Analysis

Job Type:

Position Description

RAND has exciting opportunities for Astronautical Engineers interested in utilizing their skills and experience to impact National and Homeland Security policies at the highest levels. As a part of RAND’s research staff, Engineers design, execute, and disseminate results of research that assists public policy makers, private sector leaders, and the public at large in strengthening the nation's economy and maintaining its security. Engineers are expected to serve on multidisciplinary teams and bring technical expertise to bear on a wide range of policy problems.

Astronautical Engineers at RAND apply their skills to assess current and future space systems (e.g., satellites, missiles, spacecraft, etc.) in support of the Department of Defense and other domestic clients. Astronautical Engineers make technical contributions to research at RAND in one or more of the following areas:

• Space systems performance and requirements assessments

• Space mission design, analysis, and optimization

• Modeling, simulation, and mathematical modeling

Astronautical Engineers will also have opportunities to apply their knowledge in spacecraft design, astrodynamics, propulsion, controls, bioastronautics, autonomous systems, and related technologies.

Qualifications

• Successful applicants will have evidence of strong skills in astronautical engineering, as demonstrated through experience in spacecraft programs and research centers; presentations and publication records; and coursework.

• Technical skills and demonstrated experience using sophisticated computer modeling and simulation (M&S) tools, preferably in a distributed computing environment, are required.

• Knowledge of models-based systems engineering principles and tools (operations analysis, subsystem models, emulators, and other tools) is required.

• Familiarity with standard aerospace computer aided design (CAD) tools is sought, along with relevant computer aided design (CAD) programming skills needed to perform conceptual design work.

• Familiarity with military and intelligence community space mission areas and requirements, and experience with MATLAB, python or similar models are preferred.

All research positions at RAND require excellent analytic skills; the ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both orally and in writing; the ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team; and a strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity.

Education Requirements

A Ph.D., M.S., or B.S. in an Engineering field (or similar) is required, with strong preference for those with aeronautical, aerospace, systems, or mechanical engineering degrees. Applicants with a masters degree must have at least 5 years of professional or academic experience; applicants with a bachelors degree must have at least 10 years of professional or academic experience. Preference will be given to those with strong astronautical coursework and educational experience.

Experience

Relevant professional or academic experience includes experience in spacecraft systems and design that encompasses a full understanding of astrodynamics, propulsion, and power and flight controls across the range of conditions. The applicant must have experience and interest in evaluating space systems, missions, and technology for concept development, cost, or effectiveness (survivability, lethality), and in communicating the results thereof both orally and in writing. Research experience applying the above skills in government, industry, and/or academia is required.

Preferred applicants have experience supporting these types of higher-level analyses and are familiar with classified Air Force and DoD engagement and mission M&S tools in a distributed computing environment.

Security Clearance

Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Please note that U.S. citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Location

Santa Monica, CA

Writing Sample Required

A writing sample is required for this position. Applicants are encouraged to use pieces that have been published in academic journals or other scientific, peer-reviewed outlets.

Salary Range

Associate Researcher: $100,000 - $154,200

Full Researcher: $115,400 - $190,000

Senior Researcher: $152,700 - $262,500

RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate’s work expe