Space Vehicle Concept Design Engineer

About the position

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. 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-enabled mission effects. The Vehicle and Ground Concepts Department (VGCD) in EED provides space vehicle and ground system preliminary/conceptual design; trade and architecture analysis, modeling, process development and leadership expertise; and tool development in support of conceptual design activities across the space enterprise. As a member of VGCD, you will be designing innovative ground segment solutions to meet the most pressing mission needs of our US Space Force, Intelligence Community, NASA, NOAA, and commercial/international customers.

Responsibilities

• Leading early-stage design studies for spacecraft concepts; types of studies can include both small, individual efforts as well as larger, multidisciplinary teams of subject matter experts.
• Serving as a subject matter expert in spacecraft-level systems engineering to support execution of customer programs, including during design reviews and other milestones.
• Leading continuous development, maintenance, and improvement of the tools and models that are used during spacecraft concept design and analysis activities.
• Supporting the development of similar capabilities within VGCD for the assessment of ground segment concept design.
• Establishing strong working relationships with government, program office, and contractor personnel as well as other members of Aerospace’s engineering group.
• Mentoring junior members of the department.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in a relevant engineering or science discipline.
• 4+ years of relevant experience working on multi-disciplinary engineering teams with a focus on spacecraft or ground segment design.
• A strong knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and system engineering; some knowledge of ground segment concepts.
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to change, and demonstrate initiative under pressure.
• Excellent interpersonal and communications skills and ability to excel in a collaborative environment; proficiency with office and collaboration tools, such as MS Office.
• Demonstrated experience in concurrent engineering tools, processes, and methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and conduct long-term technical studies for geographically dispersed programs.
• Occasional domestic travel.
• Current or active TS/SSBI and ability to maintain clearance.

Nice-to-haves

• 7+ years of relevant experience working on multi-disciplinary engineering teams with a focus on spacecraft or ground segment design.
• Ability to assemble and lead multi-disciplinary teams and to scope work for often vague problem statements.
• Ability to communicate technical information to various levels and types of stakeholders.
• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) from an accredited program in engineering or relevant engineering discipline.
• Proficiency in commercial simulation tools/programming languages, including one or more of: MATLAB, Python, Simulink, STK, C++, SolidWorks.
• Strong, demonstrated personal initiative to seek out work, establish relationships throughout organizations, and identify and correct issues as they arise.
• Experience with the Intelligence Community, DoD, and other common Aerospace customers.

Benefits

• 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.