Communications Hardware Test Engineering Lead

The Aerospace Corporation•Center, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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 Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. VSD partners closely with the Human Exploration and Space Flight (HESF) Division in support of the NASA customer across all aspects of human space flight. We are looking for a Communications Hardware Test Lead (Project Engineer/Sr. Project Engineer - Communication Systems Engineering) to support the test and verification of RF systems across NASA’s human spaceflight portfolio. In this role you will support the NASA Johnson Space Center VIPER (Vehicle Integrated Performance, Environments and Resources) team with technical expertise and leadership in the design, development, and execution of tests for radio frequency devices and systems, ensuring they meet performance specs, analyzing data, troubleshooting issues, and creating test procedures involving wireless protocols like CCSDS. You will also provide operational support during missions and will be responsible for ensuring reliable communication between the spacecraft and ground systems throughout its lifecycle, including launch, on-orbit operations, and landing. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, TX.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline
6+ years of experience with communications hardware systems, including design and testing tools
Expertise in communications hardware testing, integration, and environmental testing protocols
Experience working with various space-to-ground communications protocols, such as CCSDS
Familiarity with avionic system safety, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and fault tolerance analysis
Willing to travel domestically as needed
10+ years of experience in communications hardware systems
Experience developing and briefing decision packages and complex information in a succinct and polished manner
Experience working on space station or spacecraft communications systems

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering or closely related field
Working knowledge of NASA standard practices and requirement
Experience with NASA flight operations and procedures
Knowledge of complex Communication Systems Integration and Test & Verification (T&V)
Expertise in NASA Human Spaceflight topics and safety matters
Experience with spacecraft communications systems in both a testing and operational scenarios

Responsibilities

Develop and execute tests of RF devices and systems, including signal analysis devices like VNAs and analyzing data to troubleshoot issues
Lead and develop a team of VIPER engineers in managing RF communication systems and providing real-time on-orbit support
Perform/Oversee integrated analysis and testing of spacecraft communications systems, hardware, and software in relation to other systems, operational environment, and required operational capabilities
Review and assess communication requirements and Verification & Validation (V&V) plans for Communications System impacts, including integrated testing, analysis, and decomposition
Communicate spacecraft communications subsystem architectures and assess impacts of changes to requirements, V&V, integrated testing, designs, and program decisions.
Identify, communicate, track, and mitigate Communications subsystem risks
Lead and oversee component and subsystem-level trade studies to inform decision-making
Maintain productive working relationships with cross-program technical teams, including engineering, safety, flight operations, crew office, and module providers
Present to appropriate boards, panels, or technical/status meetings as needed

Benefits

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 total 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 in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect