Disruptive Technologies Engineer
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 Defense Systems Group (DSG) provides analysis-based decision support to senior leaders on space architectures, policy and strategy, technology development, warfighter capability enablers, systems integration, defense industrial base, and threat reduction to help shape existing and future space missions across the national security space (NSS) enterprise. DSG is unique at Aerospace as it not only directly supports major customers, including the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Space Command, Air Force Material Command, and senior leadership at the Pentagon, but also provides a broad range of technical support across the national space enterprise, maintaining vertical responsibilities with customers’ portfolios as well as horizontal, matrixed responsibilities across the corporation. Additionally, DSG provides deep technical expertise to the Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) in the conception, design, acquisition, launch and operations of satellite, launch vehicle, ground control, and range systems. DSG is seeking a Disruptive Technologies Engineer who will be instrumental in guiding the development and assessment of next-generation defense capabilities. This role will apply engineering expertise to help solve some of the most challenging problems facing the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). This is a unique opportunity to work with a diverse team of subject matter experts on cutting-edge technologies that are critical to our national security. You will be at the forefront of innovation, shaping the future of missile defense by adapting existing systems for new applications and guiding the development of next-generation capabilities. Your work on systems like advanced EO/IR sensors, directed energy, advanced discrimination approaches, and other emerging and disruptive technologies will directly inform strategic decisions and ensure the nation maintains its technological advantage. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in Huntsville, AL.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related technical discipline (e.g., aerospace, electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering).
- 8 or more years of relevant technical experience, with some exposure to missile defense systems or related mission areas.
- Demonstrated experience with advanced technologies such as EO/IR sensing, directed energy, laser-based systems, or advanced discrimination.
- Proven ability to coordinate and lead multidisciplinary technical teams through complex analyses to solve challenging aerospace or defense-related problems.
- Proven ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with geographically dispersed teams to ensure timely responses to urgent customer tasking.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to effectively brief senior Customer, Contractor, and Aerospace management, supported by a proficiency in presentation tools like Microsoft PowerPoint.
- Demonstrated ability to solve ambiguous problems and work proactively within a dynamic environment where priorities may change.
- Willingness to travel occasionally to other work locations or customer sites as required.
- This position requires an active Top Secret security clearance and the ability to be cleared for SAP/SAR access and TS/SCI, which are issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
Nice To Haves
- Master’s or Ph.D. degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related technical discipline.
- Direct experience with the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) or within the missile defense mission area.
- Proven ability to build consensus and establish effective working relationships in a matrixed environment, with a strong aptitude for anticipating customer needs and building trust.
- Technical expertise in the development, testing, or integration of advanced technologies on airborne and/or space-based platforms.
- Experience with early-stage program acquisitions, rapid prototyping initiatives, or technology demonstration missions.
- A currently active Top Secret security clearance with SCI and SAP/SAR access.
Responsibilities
- Perform and lead complex technical assessments of advanced technologies to inform customer decisions on critical defense programs.
- Assemble and direct teams of Aerospace subject matter experts to evaluate a wide range of systems, including EO/IR sensors, laser-based systems, Directed Energy, advanced discrimination approaches, and other non-kinetic and disruptive technologies.
- Act as a trusted advisor and technical facilitator to MDA program offices, providing direct expert consultation when needed, while seamlessly coordinating and guiding Aerospace SMEs to ensure the delivery of high-impact technical solutions.
- Develop, coordinate, and gain approval for in-depth technical analyses, ensuring our efforts deliver maximum value to the customer.
- Frame complex problems and execute focused studies both independently and collaboratively with government customers and internal teams.
- Operate strategically by identifying and developing solutions for the MDA's most challenging problems.
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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
