Spacecraft Defense Architect

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.

nformation Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD) staff couple the latest in information system technologies, such as elastic compute clouds, containerization, microservices, real-time operating systems, and visualization frameworks, with expertise in cyber security, software architecture, software engineering, data science, Artificial Intelligence, process improvement, and software development to deliver responsive, resilient, high-performance software intensive systems to include Intelligence Community, DoD, and civilian customers.

Aerospace’s Cyber Security and Advanced Platforms Subdivision is seeking a Spacecraft Defense Architect to act as the senior technical authority responsible for protecting and defending space vehicles through technical analysis, strategic acquisition planning, and integrated engineering solutions. This role supports our customers and mission partners including: government agencies, prime contractors, commercial vendors, and other FFRDCs – through every step of the acquisition process for next-generation weapon systems.

The successful candidate will combine deep technical expertise in cyber security, software/systems architecture, and data strategy with proven leadership skills to mentor junior staff and lead multidisciplinary teams in designing resilient defense solutions for space assets.

This is a fulltime position that is 100% onsite based at Buckley SFB, CO.

• Lead and mentor teams developing integrated defense capabilities that support the protection of space vehicles.
• Resolve complex cyber security and system architecture challenges by leveraging cutting-edge technologies, both commercial and internal R&D.
• Serve as the primary interface for government staff, contractors, commercial vendors, and FFRDC partners for Space Vehicle Defense related projects and programs.
• Gather and translate technical requirements into actionable engineering designs while continuously communicating risk, progress, and opportunities to leadership and stakeholders.
• Develop, review, and present technical strategies and studies, conducting readiness reviews, performance assessments, and technology planning to ensure minimal mission impact and maximum security.
• Collaborate with internal technical resources and external partners to ensure a cohesive approach to securing space assets.

• Bachelor’s degree in STEM, with major in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or related technical discipline.
• 12 or more years of experience related to software development, software architectures, with familiarity with microservices and API development.
• Proven ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple priorities effectively.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment.
• Superior verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working through complex engineering challenges which have both technical and political contributions. Skilled in advancing complex engineering initiatives through technical leadership and organizational influence.
• Experience presenting strategies to customers and obtaining collaboration and buy-in.
• Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site domestically approx. 20%.
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to…