Space Systems and Orbit Determination Operations Engineer

About the Company

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, operating a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC). We provide solutions across satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers.

• Support SDA and PNT mission areas through analysis, algorithm development, systems engineering, and modeling and simulation (M&S).
• Advise key stakeholders and government customers by planning, executing, and reporting on analytic studies.
• Conduct analyses using in-house, commercial, and government-provided M&S and analysis tools.
• Develop system specifications, conduct tests, support exercises, and evaluate training requirements for space systems.
• Perform orbit determination, target tracking, and navigation analyses using Kalman filtering and other estimation techniques.
• Provide astrodynamic analytical support, algorithm development, systems engineering, and architecting for space surveillance systems and missions.
• Analyze EO, IR, radar, and passive radio frequency sensor concepts, architectures, and algorithms.
• Conduct space protection, threat susceptibility, vulnerability, and resiliency assessments.
• Develop proficiency across SDA, PNT, Battle Management Command and Control (BMC2), and space control mission areas.
• Independently evaluate, select, adapt, and develop techniques and approaches to solve novel problems.
• Collaborate with inter‑organizational teams and external customers on technical matters.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related technical discipline.
• Four (4) years of applicable aerospace engineering, physics, or mathematics experience.
• Experience in M&S, analysis, and/or algorithm development.
• Software development experience and proven capabilities in at least one of the following programming languages:
  Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or Java.
• Experience with filtering algorithms and state estimation techniques.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and interact effectively with Aerospace and contractor personnel.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related technical discipline.
• Five (5) years of applicable aerospace engineering, physics, or mathematics experience.
• Experience with orbit determination and satellite tracking.
• Experience with GNSS and PNT applications.
• Advanced knowledge of filtering algorithms and state estimation techniques.
• Background in modeling of EO and radar sensor systems, particularly the Space Surveillance Network sensors.
• Experience in analysis of directed energy threat mitigation concepts for EO and Infrared sensors.
• Familiarity with machine learning and artificial intelligence for space systems.
• Experience in researching, developing, and applying advanced and innovative techniques for algorithm development for directed energy threat detection and reporting.
• Current TS/SCI clearance.

The compensation package includes a base salary ranging from $ to $, paid annually.

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. Applicants with disabilities or veteran status who need assistance using the application process may contact us at  or peoplemangmnt.mailbox.

Employees working in organizations with technical responsibilities are required to obtain a Security Clearance. U.S. citizenship is required for these positions.