Senior Optical Communications Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•Chantilly, VA

2d•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. At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD! The Communications and Signal Analysis Department (CSAD) performs analysis, modeling and simulation of radio/optical communications and signal collection/processing (SIGINT) systems. We support a multitude of space and intelligence customers in the prototyping, development, integration and testing of new capabilities, ranging from new waveforms to new systems. We currently have an opportunity within CSAD for optical communications engineering expertise, as detailed below. Work Model: The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at Chantilly, VA. The opportunity includes significant engagement with customers, requiring frequent visits to local customer facilities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics/Optics, or related technical discipline
Expertise in free-space optical satellite communications links, networks and system development and/or acquisition
8+ years of optical communications experience in link analysis, modeling & simulation and lab experience with fiber-optic communication systems or laser based optical/instrumentation systems
Willing to travel domestically as needed, estimated at approximately 10% of the time
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required
Demonstrated knowledge of optical modulation, coding, and framing formats, including relevant industry standards
Some knowledge of optical networking, e.g., data-center/enterprise networking, or telecom/undersea transport, or airborne/space networking domains
Experience generating or evaluating lasercom system designs down to the photonics component level
A total of 12+ years of experience in satellite communications links/networks, including direct experience in free-space optical communication development and acquisition programs
Experience building and leading teams during the advanced development, integration and testing of free-space optical satellite communication systems

Nice To Haves

Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline
Experience with our customers and knowledge of National Technical Means
Direct experience (3+ years) on space optical communication programs in the commercial, civil/DoD/IC domain, from either space and/or ground terminal aspect
Direct experience in the fiber-optic telecom industry, lidar/imaging optical systems, or satellite communications
Expertise with optical atmospheric effects and related mitigation techniques
Demonstrated strong analytical and team leadership and multi-tasking skills
Active TS/SCI clearance

Responsibilities

Supporting the analysis, development, acquisition, integration and testing of advanced optical satellite communication systems, including associated ground optical terminal systems
Initiating studies, coordinating tasking, building/leading teams, performing technical studies, presenting results and interfacing with multiple stakeholders
Supporting our Civil, DoD and intelligence community customers, including the National Reconnaissance Office
Demonstrating leadership and initiative to inform stakeholders of perceived technical problems and recommended courses of action, including technical studies, laboratory risk-reduction efforts and on-orbit testing
Acting as the organizations designated representative at program review meetings, technical meetings, presentations and symposia

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