Space Architecture Performance Analyst

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.

About the Role

The Systems Engineering Division (SED) provides unmatched experience in systems engineering to the U.S. government and numerous public and private agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, consortia, and commercial companies involved in the advanced application of space technology. From systems architecture development to system analysis and optimization, astrodynamics, orbital debris, navigation, failure analysis, mission assurance, cost and schedule assessment, and economic market analysis, SED exploits an incredibly broad array of engineering and business disciplines against a dynamic portfolio of programs and national challenges.

In the Performance Modeling and Analysis Department, we solve tough problems and explore novel ideas while empowering people to make a difference. We are looking for a Space Architecture Performance Analyst (Senior Member of Technical Staff/Engineering Specialist - Modeling & Simulation Engineering) to use sophisticated simulation tools in support of requirements verification, analyses-of-alternatives (AoA), and performance modeling for space-based remote sensing and communications architectures.

Responsibilities

• Provide analysis to support recommendations for research, development, and acquisition decisions of legacy and emerging customer space-based sensing and communication architectures.
• Perform architecture evaluation modeling overall performance using in-house or custom-developed analysis tools.
• Work with senior staff, management, and a team to translate customer needs into project objectives and provide technical evaluations.
• Develop and present timely and technically accurate presentations and reports that clearly communicate analysis results and provide recommended solutions to technical leads, management, and customers.
• Aid in sustainment, development, and growth of the organization’s analysis and simulation capabilities to support functional areas for our diverse customer base.
• Serve as a point of contact for department capabilities and peer mentor for junior staff.

Requirements

Senior Member of Technical Staff - Modeling & Simulation Engineering

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field from an accredited program.
• 5 years of increasingly responsible engineering experience.
• Knowledge in one of these specific national security space or intelligence mission areas:
  • geo-spatial intelligence,
  • signals intelligence,
  • space surveillance,
  • space protection,
  • ground systems,
  • communications infrastructure supporting defense or intelligence capabilities.
• Familiarity with astrodynamics or space operations.
• The ability to interact and work with a diverse team in different locations.
• Experience with one or more software languages that may include Python, C++, or MATLAB.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Engineering Specialist - Modeling & Simulation Engineering (in addition to the above):

• 8 years of increasingly responsible engineering experience.
• Demonstrated technical leadership, personal accountability, and adaptability to changing customer expectations.
• Ability to independently develop and strengthen relationships with program offices and customers to maintain continuous tasking.
• Experience leading large multi-disciplinary teams in conducting specialized technical analysis tasks as part of larger project efforts.

Qualifications

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

• A graduate degree in the fields of study mentioned above.
• Significant, firsthand work history in one or more of the functional/mission areas listed above.
• Academic background in systems engineering, modeling & simulation, or communication architectures.
• Knowledge of Intelligence Community or U.S. Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios.
• Current TS/SCI access with a polygraph.

Pay

The grade-based pay range for this job is $100,300.00 - $175,900.00 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.

Schedule

This is a full-time position which requires 100% onsite work in any one of the following locations: El Segundo, CA; Chantilly, VA; or Colorado Springs, CO.

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. To cultivate our talent and ensure a strong pipeline of future leaders, we seek individuals who:

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