Director, Cyberspace Combat Department

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

5d•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. An exciting and strategic leadership opportunity awaits a visionary Director for the Cyberspace Combat Department within the Cybersecurity and Advanced Platforms Subdivision. This role will focus on safeguarding our national interests by applying advanced technology and innovative methods to win cyber conflicts in the space domain. You will be at the forefront of defensive cyber operations, performing space - focused penetration testing and cyber assessments , reverse engineering relevant systems, and developing next-generation exploits to ensure cyberspace superiority. Work Model Thi s is a fulltime po sition that is 100 % onsite in Chantilly VA, El Segundo CA, or Colorado Springs CO.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science , Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM discipline.
10 or more years’ experience related to relevant experience in a position related to cybersecurity, systems engineering, software development, embedded systems, or similar fields.
Proven leadership experience overseeing highly technical teams in cyber operations and /or defense-oriented projects.
In-depth understanding of key cyber warfare domains including: Defensive cyber operations and cyber assessments Reverse engineering methodologies for electronic and digital systems Development and utilization of cyber exploits
S trong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate and influence across tea ms (staff, peers, and stakeholders ) .
Experience supporting mission critical organizational goals, including those related to national security and advanced cyber operations.
Willingness to travel occ asionally to work locations or customer sites domestically up to approximately 40 % .
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance , which is issued by the US government .
U.S. citizenship to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree ( Master’s or Ph.D.) in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related field.
Hands-on experience with both defensive and offensive cyber operations in high-stakes environments, particularly within government or defense sectors.
Demonstrated expertise in developing and implementing innovative cyber warfare strategies, including the integration of automated and manual reverse engineering and exploit development techniques.
Proven track record in successfully managing large-scale cyber operations projects or similar high-impact initiatives.
Possession of advanced cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CISSP, OSCP) or specialized training in cyber warfare and threat intelligence.
Prior experience collaborating with DoD, Intelligence Community, or other national security agencies is highly desirable.
Current TS/SCI with the ability to obtain SAP clearances, which is issued by the US government.

Responsibilities

Develop, lead, and mentor a team of cybersecurity professionals, including experts in defensive cyber operations, cyber assessments, reverse engineering, and exploit development.
Define and drive the strategic vision for cyber warfare initiatives across space and related defense domains, ensuring alignment with broader Aerospace ETG mission support .
Collaborate with interagency partners including DoD, Intelligence Community, and Civil Space (e.g., NASA) to formulate and execute strategies that counter emerging cyber threats.
Oversee and continuously evolve cyber operations strategy, incorporating state-of-the-art technologies and innovative tactics to mitigate risk and exploit adversarial vulnerabilities.
Ensure robust operational readiness of cyber defensive and offensive systems through rigorous testing, regular assessments, and continuous improvement of processes and procedures.
Direct and review products including Analysis of Alternatives and Proof-of-Concept prototypes to validate emerging techniques and to inform decision makers.
Provide thought leadership by integrating insights from reverse engineering, vulnerability assessment, and exploit development to create actionable, intelligence-driven solutions.
Cultivate a high-performance, inclusive, and collaborative environment that attracts and develops top cyber talents while maintaining strong interdepartmental relationships.

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
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect