Space Domain Awareness Technical Fellow

About the role

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a Technical Fellow to lead Space Domain Awareness (SDA) initiatives. This role will focus on developing next-generation SDA system architectures, integrating AI/ML, and shaping corporate investment in emerging technologies.

Responsibilities

• Partner with customers and operators to develop innovative SDA architectures addressing emerging challenges
• Engage commercial SDA providers and civil agencies to align technical approaches and data standards
• Position Aerospace as the premier SDA technical authority, pioneering cislunar and deep space awareness
• Advise executives on technical investments and R&D priorities across defense, civil, and commercial applications
• Drive AI/ML applications transforming SDA operations from automated tracking to predictive orbit determination
• Integrate SDA with space operations, intelligence, sustainability, and cyber
• Advance frameworks for data sharing and collaboration across government, commercial, and international networks
• Mentor staff in sensor phenomenology, data fusion, orbital mechanics, and object characterization
• Build multi-disciplinary teams spanning sensors, data processing, astrodynamics, and analytics

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in STEM, Engineering, Physics, or related field
• 15+ years in SDA, space surveillance, traffic management, or space system architectures
• Experience leading SDA sensor systems, data fusion architectures, and tracking solutions
• Hands-on experience with government or commercial SDA systems (Space Surveillance Network sensors, IC systems, or commercial platforms)
• Track record leading R&D in sensors, algorithms, conjunction assessment, or traffic management
• Exceptional communication skills engaging senior officials, commercial partners, and research communities
• Mentoring and leadership experience
• Ability to build and lead multi-disciplinary technical teams

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or related field
• Technical depth in orbital mechanics, sensor phenomenology, tracking algorithms, and data fusion
• AI/ML knowledge for tracking, pattern analysis, anomaly detection, and orbit determination
• Space-based sensor design and modeling and simulation performance experience
• Cislunar and deep space domain awareness experience
• Familiarity with conjunction assessment, collision avoidance, debris mitigation, and space battle management
• Understanding of cyber threats and SDA system resilience
• Knowledge of commercial SDA capabilities and business models
• Mission experience delivering actionable insights on critical defense, civil, or commercial programs
• Delivering prototypes and transitioning SDA solutions from concept to operations
• Compartmented DoD/IC missions (current Top Secret/SCI clearance; current Special Access Program clearances) or commercial SDA operations
• NASA civil space missions, planetary defense, or traffic coordination
• Strategic vision bridging commercial, defense, and civil sectors, aligning stakeholder needs with innovation
• Understanding of space policy, regulatory frameworks, and international norms

Skills

• Strategic Leadership
• Technical Innovation
• Team Development

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs
• Education assistance programs
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect