Space Vehicle Concept Design 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 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 and Ground Concepts Department (VGCD) in EED provides space vehicle and ground system preliminary/conceptual design; trade and architecture analysis, modeling, process development and leadership expertise; and tool development in support of conceptual design activities across the space enterprise. As a member of VGCD, you will be designing innovative spacecraft and ground segment solutions to meet the most pressing mission needs of our US Space Force, Intelligence Community, NASA, NOAA, and commercial/international customers.

This position is 100% onsite in either of the following locations:
El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VA.

• Leading early‑stage design studies for spacecraft concepts; types of studies can include both small, individual efforts as well as larger, multidisciplinary teams of subject matter experts
• Leading continuous development, maintenance, and improvement of the tools and models that are used during spacecraft concept design and analysis activities
• Supporting the development of similar capabilities within VGCD for the assessment of ground segment concept design
• Establishing strong working relationships with government, program office, and contractor personnel as well as other members of Aerospace’s engineering group

• Minimum:
  Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in a relevant engineering or science discipline
• 2+ years of relevant experience working on multi‑disciplinary engineering teams with a focus on spacecraft or ground segment design
• A strong knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and system engineering; some knowledge of ground segment concepts
• Proven ability to work in a fast‑paced environment, adapt quickly to change, and demonstrate initiative under pressure
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and proficiency with office and collaboration tools, such as MS Office
• Experience in concurrent engineering tools, processes, and methodologies
• Ability to work independently and conduct long‑term technical studies for geographically dispersed programs
• Occasional domestic travel
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

• Current Top Secret/SCI clearance
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) from an accredited program in engineering or a relevant discipline
• Proficiency in commercial simulation tools/programming languages, including MATLAB, Python, Simulink, STK, C++, Solid Works
• Strong, demonstrated personal initiative to seek out work, establish relationships throughout organizations, and identify and correct issues as they arise
• Experience with the Intelligence Community, DoD, and other common Aerospace customers

Min – Max: $86,600.00 – $ (Annual)

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

• 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 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 upon hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect