Senior Cost Engineer

Overview

The Aerospace Corporation’s Engineering Economics and Management Sciences (EEMS) department is seeking a Senior Cost Engineer to lead the development of next-generation cost estimates, models, and databases for the National Security Enterprise. The selected candidate will work full‑time on‑site at our facility in Chantilly, Virginia.

• Advise national security and civil/commercial customers on methods and strategies for procuring cost‑effective space systems.
• Participate in space system design and evaluation teams, lead the cost‑analysis component, and provide insight into cost risks and schedule estimates.
• Perform life‑cycle cost estimates and trade studies by working directly with customers or through program office leads, developing cost methodologies consistent with engineering and cost‑estimating principles.
• Perform cost research, develop and maintain databases, tools, and methodologies to modernize cost‑estimating processes.
• Review and evaluate contractor proposals and deliverables, ensuring Aerospace technical quality in terms of completeness, relevance, accuracy, and timeliness.
• Dedicate time to training junior staff and peer‑reviewing technical products to maintain EEMS’s reputation for rigorous, objective analysis.
• Develop and deliver accurate and timely reports and presentations that clearly communicate results and solutions to support critical decisions.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, Economics, or a related quantitative analysis/STEM field.
• Experience: At least 8 years of relevant experience in space systems acquisition, cost/schedule engineering, or advanced decision analytics.
• Technical Mastery: Expert‑level proficiency in Monte Carlo simulation (e.g., @RISK, Crystal Ball) and other risk assessment methodologies.
• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers, lead large system cost estimates, manage cost‑estimating teams, and interface with senior customers.
• Innovation: Exhibits exceptionally high level of innovation, creativity, and initiative while working in high‑visibility and sometimes short‑term request environments.
• Travel: Willingness to travel occasionally to work location or customer sites domestically or internationally.
• Security Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.
• Advanced Degree (Additional Requirement): Master’s or Ph.D. in Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related STEM field, and 12 years of experience in cost engineering, cost analysis, or operations research.

• Proven track record in building cost models and developing cost databases with expertise in Python, R, or SQL.
• Understanding of the NDAA 2026 acquisition environment, PPBE Reform, and the Warfighting Acquisition System transformation impacts on U.S. Government Space Systems.
• Advanced degree from an accredited program in a relevant field.
• Experience with government or commercial space operations management.
• Familiarity with companies supporting the aerospace/defense industrial base and Aerospace Corporation’s customers, including working in a classified environment.
• Relevant internships or past positions that build skills to support U.S. Government initiatives to increase commercial service usage.

• Competitive compensation package based on performance, with a pay range of $ – $ per year.
• 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 contributions and matching.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs, including education assistance.
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

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 (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

If you have a disability or are a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools, please contact us by phone at  or by email lbox.