Data Architect and Cloud Solutions 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 deliver innovative solutions spanning satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers.

About the role

The Data Platforms and Architectures Department in the Information Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD) is at the forefront of developing cutting-edge data architectures and solutions. Our mission is to empower civil and national security space customers with data architectures that enable multi-domain, data-centric organizations through excellence in data management, orchestration, integration, fusion, and cloud development. This full-time position requires 100% onsite work and may be based in El Segundo, CA; Colorado Springs, CO; or Chantilly, VA.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with National Security Space, United States Space Force, and other Department of Defense customers.
• Provide advanced data architecture and engineering designs and solutions for the space enterprise.
• Lead the development of highly resilient and efficient data architectures, platforms, and solutions central to current and future information systems.
• Support customers by managing rapidly growing data volumes with innovative data platforms.
• Lead, coordinate, and collaborate with multi-functional teams to build and deploy prototypes and internal enterprise applications/platforms using public and private cloud.
• Adapt duties, responsibilities, and activities as needed to meet evolving organizational requirements.
• Drive increased velocity and innovation for Aerospace and our customers through the development of data solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Computer Science or a related STEM field from an accredited institution.
• 5+ years of professional experience in software development, data engineering, software and data architecture development, or similar technical specializations.
• Strong technical leadership acumen and experience.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in designing, developing, and implementing data-intensive cloud-native applications using Python, C/C++, Java, etc.
• Hands-on experience in building enterprise AI-ready data management systems, data operations, integration, and fusion.
• Hands-on experience with cloud-native application development and deployment across both cloud and on-premises platforms using technologies such as Kubernetes, Docker, and Helm.
• Familiarity with building modern AI capabilities, LLMs, RAGs, and Agentic AI systems.
• Familiarity with cloud technologies and platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Platform One).
• Willingness to travel occasionally to work location or customer site domestically or internationally if required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.

Qualifications

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Advanced degree (Masters or PhD) in Computer Science or a related STEM field.
• Expertise in modern data architectures, paradigms, solutions, and platforms for multi-domain enterprise organizations (e.g., data lakehouse, data fabric, data mesh).
• Proficiency in data security, management, governance, orchestration, integration, fusion, virtualization, and access.
• Knowledge of knowledge graphs and ontologies.
• Proficiency in microservices and cloud architectures.
• Familiarity with the latest AI advancements in data management, governance, and operations.
• Familiarity with Palantir Foundry.
• Active Secret or TS/SCI clearance.

Pay

The grade-based pay range for this job is $110,400.00 - $165,500.00 annually. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

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.

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. We look for individuals who:

• Operate Strategically.
• Lead Change.
• Engage with Impact.
• Foster Innovation.
• Deliver Results.