Spacecraft Propulsion Manager

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.
Job Summary
The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly-trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.
The Propulsion Department within VSD develops and evaluates cutting-edge propulsion technologies and systems for current and future government and commercial applications. As the Spacecraft Propulsion Manager, you will be responsible for managing resources to meet customer needs for spacecraft propulsion system design, procurement, test, and operation.
This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, offering a hybrid work model that combines regular onsite work and remote flexibility as the business needs allow.
What You'll Be Doing

• Provide technical expertise to support the development of resilient space architectures and dynamic space operations for national security customers
• Work closely with staff, management, and customers to prioritize and efficiently manage resources in response to evolving program needs
• Ensure the relevance, quality, integrity, and timeliness of technical products
• Maintain or grow section capabilities through hiring, purchasing or initiating development of job aids, and facilitating information sharing and teamwork
• Develop member abilities through work assignments, learning opportunities, and performance management
• Provide upper management, peer organizations, and customers with awareness of issues; ensure two-way communication internal and external to department on broad issues facing customers
• Ensure compliance to corporate policies and practices, especially secure handling of classified or proprietary material; monitor adherence to best practices
• Provide direct technical support as needed to compliment staff deliveries

What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent is required
• (8) years of applicable professional experience is required
• You should have strong people management skills which includes: training, motivating and directing employees to optimize workplace productivity and promote professional growth
• Strong background in propulsion system design, analysis, test, and operations
• Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills
• Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately 15% (as required)
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SSBI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. 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:

• Advanced degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent is strongly preferred
• Experience with spacecraft or similar propulsion systems
• Experience with space system engineering practices and standards
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• A current and active TS/SSBI security clearance is strongly desired, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

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)
$105,000 - $140,000 - $185,000
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.