Propulsion Systems Program Office Project Leader/Sr. Project Leader

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

4d•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 Launch Systems, Operations, and Development team within the Launch Systems Division is seeking a well-qualified individual with demonstrated leadership and exceptional communication abilities. As a Propulsion Systems Project Leader you will manage and provide leadership for a team of Program Office (PO) and Engineering & Technology Group (ETG) engineers to evaluate, certify, and provide mission assurance for propulsion systems used on the SpaceX National Security Space Launch (NSSL) for the United States Space Force. You will be responsible for ensuring ETG consistently provides technically sound and objective assessments along with recommendations to Aerospace and Space Force leadership within appropriate timelines and budget allocations for the purposes of launch vehicle certification and operational mission assurance. You will also be responsible for providing direction, mentoring, and developing the technical and functional capabilities of the PO and ETG teams while also building effective working relationships with the Space Force team, contractor counterparts (e.g. SpaceX and their suppliers), and other interested parties (e.g. NRO and NASA). The Propulsion Systems Program Office Project Leader focuses on overall mission execution across SpaceX Falcon9 propulsion systems interfacing with Propulsion Engineering, Mechanical Systems, Stage Systems, Thermostructures, and Fluid Mechanics in the engineering matrix group that supports the program office. In addition, this position involves programmatic and technical leadership of the program office team, individual project engineers focused on Engines and Stage Propulsion Systems, to execute on Falcon9 NSSL missions on budget and on plan. Work Model The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility at Los Angeles Air Force Base

Requirements

B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or related technical field
10 or more years of related engineering experience
Past work in propulsion to include three or more of the following: engine/systems design, propulsion analysis/evaluation, engine testing, propulsion systems engineering, stage propulsion, engine manufacturing, engine certification, mission assurance, or mission support
Experience leading multi-disciplinary technical team efforts
Must be physically able to enter manufacturing facility, travel to test sites, and travel to launch site to support missions, and travel between campuses
A current DOD Secret Clearance or the ability to obtain/maintain a Secret Clearance, which is issued by the U.S. Government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
All of the above requirements for Project Leader, Propulsion Engineering
12 or more years of related engineering and program leadership experience
Past work in propulsion to include most of the following: engine/systems design, propulsion analysis/evaluation, engine testing, propulsion systems engineering, stage propulsion, engine manufacturing, engine certification, mission assurance, and mission support

Nice To Haves

M.S. and/or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with emphasis in combustion or propulsion from a recognized institution and/or MBA
Experience leading component level pedigrees, developing and delivering presentations to peers and all levels of management
Consulting or advising external groups
Knowledge the Launch Verification Matrix, Chief Engineer Review Board, and/or Risk management matrix

Responsibilities

Lead activities related to analysis, design, development, evaluation, testing, certification, pedigree, mission assurance, fleet monitoring, and launch mission control of large launch vehicle motors, engines, and stage propulsion systems
Manage Aerospace Engineering & Technology Group (ETG) technical studies that assure the integrity, reliability, performance, and compliance of large engines and propulsion systems
Collaborate with other program office staff responsible for other aspects of launch systems (such as structures, GNC, avionics, systems, etc)
Support management and systems engineering activities as needed
Prepare reports, briefings, updates, and documents as needed in support of program activities and Aerospace processes
Build and maintain close working relationship with the Space Force and Aerospace program offices, Contractors, and representatives from other government agencies
Provide technical advice/recommendations and inform Customer/Aerospace management of technical activities, issues and accomplishments through reports and briefings to senior level management
Assist the contractor in certifying and launching vehicles
Establish mutually beneficial solutions between the contractors and the USG team

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