Senior Optical Communications Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation • Chantilly, VA

267d

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 communication and signal collection 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 a Senior Optical Communications Engineer as an Engineering Specialist or Senior Engineering Specialist.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics/Optics, or related technical discipline.
• Expertise in free-space optical satellite communications links / networks.
• Eight or more years of experience in optical communications link analysis, modeling & simulation tools/software, and lab experience with fiber-optic communication systems, or laser based optical/instrumentation systems.
• Willing to travel domestically approximately 10% of the time.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
• Demonstrated knowledge of optical modulation, coding, and framing formats for fiber-optic and free space optical links.
• Working knowledge of optical networking, from the data-center/enterprise networking, or telecom/undersea transport, or the airborne/space networking domains.
• Generate and/or evaluate lasercom system designs down to the photonics component level.

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.
• Work in the fiber-optic telecom industry, or in optical systems for lidar/imaging systems, or in Satellite Communications.
• Demonstrated strong analytical and team leadership and multi-tasking skills.
• Active TS/SCI.

Responsibilities

• Supporting the analysis, development, acquisition, integration and testing of advanced optical satellite communication systems, and associated ground optical terminal system.
• Initiating studies, coordinating tasking, 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.
• Taking initiative to inform stakeholders of perceived technical problems and recommended courses of action.
• 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 with company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.
• A work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree