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.
Join The Aerospace Corporation's Enterprise Effects Division (EED), where innovation meets mission impact.
Our division tackles the most pressing challenges in space operations—from emerging threats to satellite systems to next-generation space domain awareness capabilities. We're looking for talented professionals who are ready to make a difference in space security, whether you're transitioning from military service, coming from industry, or seeking to apply your technical skills to real-world operational challenges.
The Space Control and Awareness Department (SCAD) supports critical national security space missions through systems engineering, architecture analysis, modeling and simulation, and operational support. Our work spans space domain awareness (SDA), advanced sensor systems, radar and optical sensors, directed energy and nuclear effects, orbit determination, modeling and simulation, and space protection.
What You'll Do
As a Space Domain Awareness and Directed Energy Analyst , you'll contribute to high-impact projects that directly support space operations and national security:
Assess Space Threats & Resilience : Evaluate risks to satellite operations from optical threats, such as lasers, nuclear effects, RF threats, debris, collisions, and counterspace activities.
Support Space Control Operations : Contribute to orbital warfare and directed energy mission planning and analysis
Analyze Sensor Systems and data : Evaluate electro-optical (EO), radar, and passive RF sensor concepts and architectures
Model & Simulate : Use cutting-edge tools (custom, commercial, and government systems) to analyze complex space scenarios
Support Exercises & Wargaming : Participate in operational simulations that shape future space strategies
Collaborate Across the Enterprise : Work with government customers, program offices, and technical teams across Colorado Springs, El Segundo (CA), Chantilly (VA), and beyond
Who We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
Education :
Bachelor or Masters Degree in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Astronomy, or related field
Experience in Space Operations : Background in one or more of the following areas:
Space Domain Awareness (SDA) or space surveillance
Optical and radar sensor systems
Space control, counterspace, or space protection missions
Satellite operations, orbit analysis, or space situational awareness
Directed energy concepts, such as lasers or nuclear effects
Analytical & Technical Skills :
Experience with modeling, simulation, and/or algorithm development
Proficiency in at least one programming language: Python, MATLAB, C++, Java, C, or FORTRAN
Ability to develop or use computer tools to solve complex interdisciplinary problems
Communication & Collaboration : Strong briefing and interpersonal skills; comfortable working with senior government officials, contractors, and cross-functional teams
Security Clearance : Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a government security clearance
Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have!)
Active TS/SCI clearance (highly desired)
Military or operational background : Experience as an orbit analyst, space control operator, intelligence analyst, or battle manager (air, maritime, or missile defense domains)
Sensor operations experience : Familiarity with Space Surveillance Network (SSN) sensors or other space surveillance systems
Command & control (C2)…