2027 Remote Sensing Architecture Technical 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.

Job Summary:

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 diverse and 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 and space-enabled capabilities. 

The Surveillance and Navigation Architecture Performance Department (SNAPD) in the Integrated Performance Subdivision aspires to be the premier force advising the evolution of national security and civil space enterprises, leveraging our modeling and simulation (M&S) expertise to evaluate end-to-end architecture performance. 

We are seeking a Remote Sensing Architecture Technical Engineer that will make use of sophisticated modeling and simulation tools in support of requirements verification, analyses-of-alternatives (AoA), and performance modeling for space-based remote sensing architectures.

Work Model:

This full-time position requires work on-site at our facility in Chantilly, VA. Alternative locations that may be considered include El Segundo, CA, or Colorado Springs, CO. 

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Support analysis in one or more of these specific mission areas: geo-spatial intelligence, signals intelligence, space surveillance, navigation systems, and/or space protection supporting defense or intelligence capabilities.
• Independently apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria to support recommendations for research, development, and acquisition decisions of legacy and emerging customer space-based sensing architectures.
• Perform architecture evaluation modeling overall performance using in-house or custom-developed analysis tools.
• Work closely with senior staff, management, and teams to plan and conduct deep dives, trade studies, and assessments, translating customer needs into project objectives and providing quality deliverables to customer organizations.
• Develop and present timely and technically accurate presentations and reports that clearly communicate analysis results and provide recommended solutions to technical leads, management, and customers.
• Aid in sustainment, development, and growth of the organization’s analysis and simulation capabilities to support increasing functional areas for our diverse customer base.

What You Need to be Successful:

Minimum Requirements

• ​M.S.degree in aerospace engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field from an accredited program (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months) 
• 0 - 1 yr of industry experience in relevant topic areas post bachelor’s degree (e.g., modeling and simulation, mission analysis, astrodynamics, or space operations.)  
• Knowledge or project experience with one or more of the following subjects: space-related modeling and simulation, geolocation, mission data processing, signal processing, space threats, resilient systems, advanced PNT technologies, algorithm design, software development, or mathematical modeling.
• Familiarity with one or more software languages that may include Python, C/C++, and/or High-Performance Computing/Linux environments.
• Minimum GPA 3.0
• This position requires 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. 
• Transcripts are required for this position

How You Can Stand Out:

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

• PhD degree in aerospace engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field from an accredited program (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months) Experience in relevant topic areas post bachelor’s degree (e.g., modeling and simulation, mission analysis, astrodynamics, or space operations.) 
• Proficiency with one or more software languages that may include Python, C, C++, MATLAB, Fortran, Java
• Significant experience in one or more of the functional/mission areas listed above.
• Proficiency with one or more software languages that may include Python, C, C++, MATLAB, Fortran, Java.
• Knowledge of Intelligence Community or U.S. Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios.  
• Demonstrated responsible professional engineering/scientific experience, to include the ability to:   
  • Self-manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and deliverables  
  • Maintain deliverable quality and manage customer expectations 
  • Take direction, work independently, and develop productive working relationships  
  • Interact and collaborate across a diverse team in different locations
• Current TS/SCI security clearance with polygraph.

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)

$100,000.00 - $140,000.00 Pay Basis: Annual

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 eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment