Thermal Control Department, Director

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.

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) is the dynamic heart of groundbreaking ideas and cutting-edge research, driving current and future systems through innovative research and development, rigorous technical evaluations in the acquisition process, visionary design, seamless assembly, integration, testing, and comprehensive operational support. Made up of elite mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD stands as a national powerhouse in vehicle engineering and offers unparalleled expertise in guidance, navigation, and controls;

robotics; electromechanical systems; embedded technology; fluid dynamics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; as well as mechanisms and structural dynamics in complex, dynamic environments.

We are on the lookout for an inspiring leader—a
** Director (Director – Aeronautical & Mechanical Engineering)**—to spearhead our Thermal Control Department within the Vehicle Performance Subdivision. This department is a hub of seasoned engineers renowned for their mastery in spacecraft thermal control system design and analysis, spanning from individual components to full-scale systems. With a portfolio that boasts deep technical studies, groundbreaking experimental investigations, and real-time decision-making support, the team plays a critical role in fueling our clients’ successes.

As Director, you will ignite innovation by providing visionary leadership, strategic planning, and expert guidance to our talented technical staff, ensuring we remain at the forefront of aerospace excellence.

This position requires 100% on-site work at our El Segundo, CA. (preferable), or Chantilly, VA., offices.
** What You’ll Be Doing
** Lead a High Impact Technical Team
* Provide leadership to a multidisciplinary team dedicated to providing technical expertise in support of thermal control technical areas for customers and contractors
* Advance department expertise in new thermal control technologies as well as thermal analysis tools and laboratory assignments
* Implement high-impact strategies that exceed customer needs, foster innovation, and deliver transformative solutions

Shape the Future of Technical Excellence
* Drive the future of the department by developing top engineering talent and expanding technical capabilities to ensure the team stays ahead of advancements in anticipation of customer priority needs
* Identify and capture new business opportunities that position the organization as an industry leader

Foster Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Build and lead high-impact cross-functional teams, aligning expertise with project needs and driving collaborative solutions
* Partner with fellow directors in the Vehicle Systems Division to shape a cohesive team strategy, align technical efforts, and share best practices

Strategically Manage Budgets
* Oversee and optimize budgets to ensure efficient resource allocation, cost-effectiveness, and operational excellence

Drive Team Performance and Engagement
* Cultivate a high-performing team by setting clear expectations, providing continuous feedback, and fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and professional growth
* Lead department in strategic planning, hiring/staffing, performance reviews, rewarding/developing staff and more
** What You Need to be Successful
**
* Minimum Requirements:

** Bachelor’s degree in a STEM-related field
* 10 years of experience in thermal control systems
* Expertise in some of the following technical areas: active and/or passive thermal control system design, numerical analysis, thermal analysis tool architecture and design, launch and mission support, thermal…