Senior Data Architect

The Aerospace Corporation•Chantilly, VA

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. Information Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD) staff couple the latest in information system technologies, such as elastic compute clouds, containerization, microservices, real-time operating systems, and visualization frameworks, with expertise in cyber security, software architecture, software engineering, data science, Artificial Intelligence, process improvement, and software development to deliver responsive, resilient, high-performance software intensive systems to our IC, DoD, and civilian customers. The Data Platforms and Architectures Department (DPAD) seeks a dynamic, creative, and enthusiastic lead to interact directly with our government stakeholders and mission sponsors, translating their needs and requirements into the delivery of software and data products. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing the overall vision, strategy, and integration, and for promoting trust with stakeholders to ensure we deliver a resilient, mission-ready product aligned with government expectations. This position is an exceptional opportunity for a visionary technical leader to drive the evolution of mission-critical systems. If you are passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technology to create transformative solutions, we encourage you to apply. This is a full-time position based in Chantilly, VA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Data/Analytics, or related field.
10+ years of experience in leadership roles within data architecture and software engineering.
Demonstrated experience in the following: Modern software engineering practices (APIs, microservices, cloud-native systems) - delete Modern data architecture (data lakes/warehouses, data mesh/fabric, data products, streaming) Federated governance models that let multiple organizations co-own a shared platform, setting common rules for data, security, and change.
Proven ability to translate complex mission objectives into effective technical architectures.
Exemplary ability to influence stakeholders and guide programs without direct authority, working collaboratively with cross-functional teams and subject matter experts (SMEs).
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated experience with U.S. DoD, space, and intelligence programs.
Experience in designing cyber-secure data architectures and implementing Zero Trust frameworks.
Familiarity with OPIR, SDA tracking missions, missile defense, and kill-chain acceleration is highly desirable.
Knowledge of agentic AI, autonomous systems, and large-scale simulation (ModSim).

Responsibilities

Strategic Technical Leadership: Collaborate with mission and program leads to identify operational needs and translate them into clear technical requirements, architectural patterns, and integrated system components.
Lead cross-functional teams spanning data, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud domains to create a cohesive, interoperable technology ecosystem.
Develop shared architectures, reusable components, and common services that accelerate multi-program integration and reduce time-to-field.
Serve as the primary technical interface for senior leadership, mission executives, and program sponsors.
Communicate complex technical concepts in simple, business-impact language to diverse audiences.
Ensure that software solutions are modular, secure, scalable, and positioned for future capabilities.
Oversee the development lifecycle with an eye for security, scalability, and adaptability to emerging technologies.

Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.
The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max) $151,300.00 - $226,900.00
Pay Basis: Annual
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