Payload Space Systems Project Leader

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•$132,900 - $257,100•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 Payload Department within GDO leverages Aerospace’s core competencies and understanding of cutting-edge technologies to support payload hardware development, acquisition, and operation for the nation’s flagship national security space program. GDO Payload is seeking a Payload Space Systems Project Leader (Project Leader/Senior Project Leader - Electro - Optical Engineering) to apply systems engineering approaches to provide sound and objective technical recommendations and solutions to our customer and contractor community. In this unique leadership position, you will manage a bicoastal Aerospace team comprised of matrix engineering and laboratory resources in support of existing and next generation payload hardware. This position requires 100% on-site work in Chantilly, VA, or El Segundo, CA

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering, mathematics, science, or related technical discipline
Minimum of 8 years of experience with electro-optics engineering and/or integration testing in roles of increasing responsibility, as well as leading teams in technical, architecture, strategy, and engineering projects and tasks
Willing to travel domestically (up to 1 week per month)
This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph, which is issued by the US government.
U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
Minimum of 12 years of experience with electro-optics engineering and integration testing in roles of increasing responsibility
Proven track record leading major technical projects / teams or complex multi-disciplinary initiatives from initiation through completion

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree (MS, PhD) in a relevant engineering or remote sensing field
Expertise in visible and/or infrared (IR) electro-optical sensors and associated technology as well as mentoring experience
Existing working relationships with relevant Aerospace matrix engineering organizations to quickly bring resources to address customer needs
Knowledge of the customer’s mission enterprise, existing remote sensing capabilities and mission partner’s needs
Experience evaluating remote sensing payload trade studies and design assessments, and knowledge of typical remote sensing payload performance budgets
Communication with a broad range of customers, technologists, program managers, system engineers, and senior government leaders

Responsibilities

Identify payload-related hardware issues / risks, document mitigations, and make recommendations to government customers within a dynamic program office environment.
Serve as a principal technical representative to the customer, and facilitate communications with the broader customer payload community
Lead a diverse team of technical experts within Aerospace ETG to manage and mitigate all technical risks that arise throughout the entire acquisition life cycle
Ensure effective collaboration and communication across GDO, related Aerospace program offices and Aerospace ETG staff
Monitor and assist in development of budgets and other resource allocations to accomplish tasks within the payload group

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