Space Domain Awareness Space Based Optical 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 Space Domain Awareness Sensors & Analytics (S2A) department within the Special Programs Division is a group of engineers and scientists supporting Space Systems Command, Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power Program Executive Office, SDA Acquisition Delta (SSC/SZG) with the sustainment of existing systems and the upgrade of current, and development of new, Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capabilities, including ground and space-based electro-optical systems, ground radar systems, and data analytic systems. This position provides program support to all aspects of the space-based electro-optical SSC/SZG portfolio such as small satellites, hosted payloads, and large satellite systems.
Work Model: Some telecommuting is possible depending on the needs of the customer.
What You'll Be Doing

• Work closely and collaboratively with government, other FFRDCs, and SETA personnel directly supporting program managers and lead engineers
• Work to demonstrate and bring new space-based electro-optical systems into operations
• Identify program risks and, using reach back to Aerospace domain experts in the Engineering Technology Group, guide analyses to mitigate them
• Advise government customers on design, performance, and operations for proposed upgrades to existing, and proposed new, space-based SDA systems
• Contribute to development of program documentation as a member of the program systems engineering working group and integrated product team (IPT)

What You Need to be Successful - Project Engineer
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited program in Remote Sensing, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Communications Engineering, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical engineering subject area
• Eight years of technical or programmatic experience in at least one of the following: electro-optical systems, test and evaluation, communication architectures, or systems engineering.
• Experience working in matrixed technical teams
• Familiarity with the DoD acquisition lifecycle
• Willing to travel approx. 10%
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government-U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

What You Need to be Successful - Senior Project Engineer
Minimum Requirements:

• Twelve years of technical or programmatic experience in more than one of the following: electro-optical systems, test and evaluation, communication architectures, or systems engineering
• Track record of leading matrixed technical teams
• Substantive experience with the DoD acquisition process
• Proven ability to identify and assess risk areas and to work closely with engineering and program office peers, customers, and contractor personnel to resolve issues quickly
• Willing to travel domestically/internationally approx. 10%
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, 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:

• Masters or PhD degree from an accredited program in Remote Sensing, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Communications Engineering, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical engineering field.
• Familiarity with the space domain awareness mission area.
• Experience with space-based electro-optical systems that includes experience in system development, acquisition, or operations.
• Knowledge of the DoD acquisition lifecycle gained through time in a systems program office, DoD laboratory or test organization, or other DoD acquisition-related organization.
• An active secret (or higher) security clearance issued by the US government.

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)
$103,300 - $159,800 - $226,200
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.