GEOINT Acquisition Systems Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•Chantilly, VA

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 National Systems Group serves as the technical advisor to the Intelligence Community and its mission partners involved in the collection and distribution of national and tactical intelligence, including electronics programs, advanced technologies, ground and communications, imagery programs, and systems engineering and launch. The GEOINT Development Office (GDO) serves as the technical adviser for national intelligence electro-optical programs. The Systems Engineering department within GDO leverages Aerospace core competencies to support program objectives throughout the system lifecycle. By applying robust systems engineering practices and in-depth knowledge of both hardware and mission requirements, the department delivers technical recommendations and solutions across multiple programs. As a Payload Systems Senior Project Engineer, you will work closely with the customer and colleagues to effectively lead matrixed engineering in support of next generation systems. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site in Chantilly, VA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or related field
12+ years of progressively more responsible electro-optical engineering experience
Technical expertise in electro-optical systems, including optical development, modeling and analysis, focal plane testing, or related technologies
Experience leading or coordinating multi-disciplinary engineering teams in support of complex space system programs
Proven experience successfully interacting with or working in a program office environment, such as a mixed working environment of customers, SETA, and FFRDC
Willingness to travel domestically as frequently as once a month
Current and active TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph
U.S citizenship

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or related field
Experience with IR electro-optical systems
Understanding of systems engineering processes used in government space acquisition, including requirements development and verification, technical evaluations, and reference architectures
Prior development of analysis tools, data processing frameworks, or performance modeling capabilities
Prior experience in experimental design, optical systems alignment, and characterization testing
Prior experience working in an engineering matrix supporting program office and customer leadership

Responsibilities

Lead technical acquisition efforts for complex space programs from early development through design phases
Serve as primary technical point of contact, maintaining stakeholder alignment and providing expert advisory support throughout the acquisition lifecycle
Assess payload designs using optical systems expertise to ensure technical rigor and mission compliance
Develop mission CONOPS, requirements, and technical documentation that drive evaluation processes and acquisition decisions
Coordinate cross-organizational teams of Aerospace Engineering Technology Group (ETG) Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for technical assessments, issue resolution, and proof-of-concept demonstrations
Work in a fast-paced environment requiring strategy, critical thinking, and collaboration

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