NNSA Defense Programs Senior Project Engineer

About the Role

The Aerospace Corporation is a federally funded research and development center supporting national space programs. This full‑time position is based in Crystal City, VA and supports the Nuclear Security Administration Defense Programs Office. The role focuses on systems engineering and integration, program management, and digital engineering for nuclear weapons modernization and other NNSA initiatives.

Crystal City, VA with an expectation of at least 4 days onsite per week. Occasional travel up to approximately one week per month.

• Serve as a senior technical authority and consultant to NNSA leadership on systems engineering and integration matters.
• Lead integrated project teams and task execution, leveraging Aerospace’s engineering backplane to deliver high‑quality technical solutions.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior staff, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.
• Support the Office of Engineering and Technology Maturation portfolio of programs supporting NNSA weapons modernization.
• Conduct technical analysis of research and development programs to enhance efficiencies, improve program oversight, and develop solutions.
• Perform systems studies and analyses to support decision‑making on R&D projects and technology readiness assessments.
• Demonstrate strong project management skills in formulating plans, leading studies, coordinating across boundaries, and managing multiple concurrent efforts.
• Collaborate with NNSA acquisition and modernization staff, coordinating interfaces between customers and Aerospace technical staff.

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or a related field, plus equivalent experience in technical operations or management of advanced national security systems.
• Twelve years of program management experience in the DoE/NNSA or another government agency.
• Strong oral and written communication skills to explain complex technical concepts to diverse audiences including senior leadership.
• Self‑motivated and self‑directed work style.
• Proven teaming and leadership abilities in planning, leading studies, and using internal technology competency resources.
• Capability to analyze and deliver technical products.
• Ability to travel occasionally, up to approximately one week per month.
• Current TS or Q/SCI clearance; U.S. citizenship required. Experience in classified Nuclear Security environments is highly valued.

• Advanced degree in engineering, science, or related field applied to Nuclear Security missions.
• Experience with Digital Engineering tool sets (e.g., Cameo, Unified Architecture Framework).
• Formal degree or certification in systems engineering or project management applied to NNSA projects.
• Experience in systems engineering, program controls, and quality within Nuclear Security, including requirements flow‑down, interface definition, schedules, documentation, change control, performance analysis, risk management, trade studies, and investment analyses.
• Experience analyzing complex technical and programmatic environments for large acquisition or multi‑site NNSA initiatives.
• Knowledge of NNSA Defense Programs missions such as stockpile stewardship and modernization.
• Direct experience working with national laboratories or understanding laboratory culture and operations.

Pay Range: $ – $ (annual). Salary determined by factors including education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

• 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 matching up to 12% of eligible compensation.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance.
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

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

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, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Individuals with disabilities or disabled veterans who need assistance using our online application tools or reasonable accommodation may contact us by phone at  or by email lbox.