OPIR Mission Payload System Analyst

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.
Contribute to mission success of the Space Systems Command (SSC) by working in the Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) mission area within the Aerospace Space Based Sensing Division. Primary responsibilities include providing payload performance engineering expertise and leadership in support of mission payloads for Next Gen GEO and Polar OPIR Space Systems.
What You'll Be Doing

• Leading space systems projects to fruition through requirements development, design development, fabrication, assembly, test, verification, and early on-orbit test
• Evaluating space-based IR payload performance as a function of the sensor's optical, thermal, focal plane characteristics, and on-board signal processing electronics.
• Working closely with contractors on mission payload integration, test, and verification. Presenting findings and recommendations to the customer.
• Participating in program status assessments and independent risk assessments that inform management of perceived technical problems and recommend mitigation plans.
• Building and optimally leading multi-disciplinary Aerospace teams to address mission payload technical and programmatic risks. This includes strategically planning for their mitigation and leading to successful issue or anomaly resolution.

Work Model: Occasional telecommuting possible
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:

• 6 or more years of related experience, including experience in space electronics, payloads and systems and 3+ years IR system integration, test, and verification.
• Bachelor's degree in a STEM area
• Proven track record of team leadership of contractor and domain experts to develop independent assessments of space systems issues.
• Current TS/SCI security clearance. Clearances are issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
• Ability to travel occasionally

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Experience with OPIR payload integration and test plans, their implementation, and addressing issues noted during integration and test.
• Demonstrated collaboration with government customer on regular basis including providing technical awareness and solutions for space systems problems
• Experience with spaceborne IR sensors and missile warning mission area
• Related Master's degree, preferably in electrical engineering, optics, or physics

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 - Mid - Max)
$103,285 - $168,019 - $232,752
Pay Basis: Annual
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 diverse 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
The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at [email protected]. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.