On-Orbit Test and Evaluation Lead

About the role

The On-Orbit Test and Evaluation Lead in the Special Programs Division, Space Domain Superiority Directorate, will serve as the Aerospace Corp. Test and Evaluation Lead for multiple space vehicle platforms within the Space Systems Command Space Combat Power portfolio. This role involves providing technical leadership to a critical new program, driving developmental and operational testing from initial planning through fielding decisions and full operational acceptance, and supporting post-operational acceptance activities such as development of tactics, test, and procedures (TTP).

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary Aerospace spokesperson for test and evaluation, advising program leadership and operational stakeholders on test requirements, operational acceptance criteria, and best practices for transitioning space systems to operational employment.
• Provide strategic insight to Aerospace leadership and the customer on test-related risks, issues, and opportunities; recommend mitigation strategies and corrective actions to support progression towards operational acceptance milestones.
• Support execution of integration DT/OT efforts across five test venues: modeling & simulation, space, ground, software, and cyber segments, with an emphasis on operational test planning, on-orbit checkout, and transition to operational control.
• Develop and facilitate tabletop exercises (TTXs) with stakeholders to develop and validate operational concepts, procedures, and employment scenarios prior to on-orbit operations.
• Audit system and architecture trades across space, ground, and cyber segments for impacts on test strategy, requirement verification, operational suitability, and fielding timeline.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships across acquisition, test, and operations communities including customer program leadership, operational commands, operational test agencies, and SETA/UARC/FFRDC partners, development contractors, Aerospace ETG and other program office support organizations.
• Lead the Aerospace team in the execution of the test and operations responsibilities of the acquisition program office, to include the coordination of subject matter experts and the integration of inputs to provide corporate and customer leadership with technical advice.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements for Sr. Project Engineer – Systems Engineering:

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant Engineering, Math, or Science subject area.
• 12 or more years of engineering experience supporting space or other military vehicle or payload testing, operating, or development projects.
• Proven track record of leading integrated, geographically dispersed, multidisciplinary, multi-organizational teams and interfacing effectively with senior government leadership.
• Strong background in systems engineering, test, and evaluation, and operational transition with demonstrated success supporting military systems through fielding decisions and operational acceptance.
• Familiarity with Space Force organizational structure, space operations concepts, and operational test processes.
• Experience authoring test documentation including TEMPs, GTOs, STOs, test plans, and test reports for major acquisition programs.

Qualifications

Additional Qualifications:

• Experience with non-space military systems developmental and operational test, including formal OT execution and interaction with operational test agencies.
• Experience supporting military systems through fielding decisions and operational acceptance, including preparation of FD/OA packages and briefings.
• Experience designing and facilitating tabletop exercises (TTXs), wargames, or operational concept development activities.
• Experience with space systems on-orbit test planning and execution, including on-orbit checkout and operational transition.
• Prior military experience as an operator, crew member, or mission controller.
• Previous military acquisition program office experience working with multi-disciplinary teams.
• Understanding of the Adaptive/Agile Mission Assurance approaches and application to space systems.
• Formal training in test and evaluation (DAU T&E courses, service test schools, ITEA certification, etc.).
• Positive attitude, ability to remain calm under pressure, and skill in speaking truth to power in a constructive, non-confrontational manner.
• Prior experience working in SAP/SAR environments/programs.

Skills

Desired Skills:

• Leadership and strategic thinking.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Knowledge of space systems and operations.
• Experience with test and evaluation methodologies.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Benefits

The Aerospace Corporation offers a competitive compensation package, including a comprehensive health care and wellness plan, paid holidays, sick time, and vacation, standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options, a 401(k) plan, variable pay program for exceptional contributions, relocation assistance, professional growth and development programs, and an inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.