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.
Job Summary
The Systems Integration and Test Office (SITO), the place Aerospace goes for integration and test, is currently looking for a Senior Engineering Specialist in Aerospace locations supporting the National Capital Region. This position supports flight and ground segment programs executed across multiple mission areas, including satellite bus and payload integration, spacecraft ground systems, small satellite experimentation, prototyping, and rapid acquisition; nuclear weapons design and acquisition; and nuclear weapons security and non-proliferation.
SITO is the Aerospace Engineering Technology Group (ETG) source of expertise in spacecraft and satellite systems integration — including on-orbit technology insertion and systems engineering applied to operationally realistic, mission-representative testing. SITO staff support all program phases, from pre-contract assistance with concept of operations and mission architecture, through integration planning, system-level test planning, design and development activities, spacecraft build and integration, launch and on-orbit verification, and transition to satellite operations. This position represents a significant career opportunity to grow division tasking and help shape solutions to our customers' hardest spacecraft integration and test challenges.
Work Model: This full-time position will be located onsite in Chantilly, VA.
What You’ll Be Doing
Develop and implement cutting-edge satellite test and integration methodologies including agile practices, enterprise performance testing, and proliferated constellation strategies
Lead coordination and integration efforts across Government, SETA, and contractor teams to successfully field highly classified mission-critical spacecraft systems for national security, civil and commercial satellite programs
Direct spacecraft test planning and execution activities including test architecture design, operational testing, data evaluation, anomaly resolution, and residual risk assessment for space systems
Support requirements development and validation by establishing verifiable spacecraft and payload requirements, defining engineering models/simulations/satellite test beds, and ensuring appropriate verification techniques during requirements definition
Deliver integration support to satellite programs and Launch and Early Orbit Phases (LEOPs) and/or (Transition Implementation Plan) TIP through integration reviews, failure investigations, engineering studies, and acquisition support for both new and existing space programs
Ensure end-to-end program success from requirements definition through Launch, Initialization, and On-Orbit Operations phases, with focus on spacecraft interface and launch-to-operations transition requirement validation
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:
BS degree in engineering, mathematics, or physical sciences is required or an equivalent combination of training and experience
12 or more years of progressively responsible experience in systems engineering or program management
Knowledge of space and space related systems
Demonstrated ability to form and lead teams
Demonstrated ability to work in a highly dynamic Program Office environment with a mix of government, FFRDC, and SETA personnel
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills; experience presenting and writing technical information
Some travel is…