Payload Systems Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•Rio, VA

2d•$117,300 - $226,900•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. Directorate-H, Electronic Programs Division, is seeking a Payload Systems Engineer (Project Engineer – Systems Engineering - Acquisition and Systems Engineering) to work in a fast-pace, Government program office responsible for designing and building a new SIGINT program from the ground up. You will be providing FFRDC technical support directly to the Government customer and working closely with industry contractors and across Aerospace. Additionally, you will be providing technical expertise, critical recommendations, technical analysis, and leading Aerospace efforts related to space system acquisition from conceptual design to on-orbit checkout and operations. This is a full-time position based in Chantilly VA, which requires 100% onsite work.

Requirements

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, physics, mathematics, or related technical field
8 or more years of progressively more responsible experience
Experience integrating RF and Digital payloads with spacecraft bus systems (power, thermal, data handling)
Knowledge of RF/microwave payload architectures including receivers, downconverters, and signal processing chains
Experience with RF and Digital payload calibration, characterization, and performance verification testing
Demonstrated ability in formulating plans, leading studies, and utilizing internal technology competency organizations
Ability to communicate technical information to audiences with wide-ranging backgrounds
Ability to think independently, identify problems, and develop solutions with minimal to no management direction
Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills
Willingness to travel approximately 10% of time
This position requires a current and active TS/SSBI/SCI security clearance and polygraph, which is issued by the U.S. government.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
12 years engineering experience working with space borne RF and Digital payload systems
Strong communication skills with experience coordinating/leading exchanges between Aerospace and Contractor Subject Matter Experts as well as briefing Senior Customer program leadership

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or related discipline
Previous experience in NRO satellite acquisitions or operations
Understanding of how RF microwave subsystems interface and transitions to Digital subsystems
Understanding of digital signal processing (DSP) for SIGINT applications including channelization, filtering, and beamforming
Knowledge of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) analysis for space-based systems
Previous experience in the development and operation of prototype space vehicles or payloads
Specific experience in the following: Signal Detection and Estimation, Electromagnetic Signal Propagation, Link Analysis, Sensitivity Analysis
Proficiency with any of the following: MATLAB, C/C++, Python, VHDL
Experience working across the NRO Enterprise
Strong ability to build relationships and enhance partnerships

Responsibilities

Provide expert systems engineering and mission integration support to a challenging National program
Provide subject matter expertise in the area of payload acquisitions and integration
Develop technical solutions that improve Mission Assurance practices within the National SIGINT enterprise through the application of proven scientific, engineering, quality, and program management principles toward the goal of achieving mission success
Conduct studies and analyses that support technical and programmatic decision-making
Assessing mission trades between segments and products for system-level design reviews to help identify optimal systems architecture designs
Working side by side with the Customer, Aerospace and SETAs in a dynamic space system acquisition environment collocated in a USG facility
Be an individual contributor of a multi-disciplined team with a common and shared vision
Proactively seek out areas of program risks while developing mitigations
Collaborate and communicate frequently with SETA, industry contractors, mid-level and senior Government officials
Provide matrixed technical support to other next-generation SIGINT acquisition activities, as needed

Benefits

Competitive compensation package
Industry-leading 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