Mission Engineering Research and Operations Support Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•Chantilly, VA

8d•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 Mission Engineering Research and Operations Support Engineer ( Sr Member of Technical Staff OR Project Engineer – Flight Mechanics ) will work collaboratively with customer operations and engineering teams to support critical aerospace and space domain awareness projects. This individual will contribute to activities ranging from sensor network analysis and spacecraft operation verification to data management and mission planning support. The role requires strong technical and analytical skills, aerospace engineering expertise with robust computational and data analytical abilities, as well as the ability to communicate clearly and effectively. This position will assist in daily operations, help maintain efficient data flow from space sensors and ground-based systems, and ensure that technical documentation and modern analytical tools are available and up to date. The selected candidate will be required to work full time, on-site at our facility in Chantilly, VA.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical field
3+ years of experience in aerospace engineering or operations experience
Working knowledge of MATLAB, SQL, and Linux command-line environments
Experience with aerospace engineering tools (STK, GMAT, or similar mission analysis software)
Demonstrated experience processing sensor data, telemetry, and large-scale aerospace datasets
Proficiency with version control (Git/GitHub) and database querying
Willing to travel approx. 10-15%
This position requires a current and active TS/SBI/SCI security clearance and polygraph, which is issued by the U.S. government.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical field
6+ years of experience in aerospace engineering or operations experience
Working knowledge of orbital mechanics, spacecraft attitude determination and control, or astrodynamics
Experience with space situational awareness or space traffic management systems
Understanding of spacecraft subsystems and systems engineering principles

Nice To Haves

Masters or PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering, Astrodynamics, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical field
8+ years of experience in relevant aerospace engineering or operations experience
Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Experience with spacecraft operations, mission control procedures, or sensor network operations
Proven track record of technical writing and presenting to diverse audiences
Strong organizational and time management skills
Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers
Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration
Ability to adapt and learn new techniques based on project needs

Responsibilities

Provide guidance and leadership to a team supporting spacecraft operations, sensor network monitoring, and mission simulation activities with minimal supervision
Support and guide the design, implementation, and maintenance of scheduling tools, operational databases, and satellite tracking campaign execution
Independently evaluate, select, and apply engineering techniques and procedures using professional judgment
Lead integration of multi-sensor data and contribute to technical reports, research documentation, and customer briefings
Prepare comprehensive technical documentation including SOPs, CONOPS, user manuals, and operational readiness assessments
Coordinate with cross-functional teams including operations staff, research scientists, and engineers
Manage project components including planning, milestone tracking, and progress reporting to stakeholders
Interface regularly with customers on matters of technical importance

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