Software Systems Acquisition Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

2d•$129,000 - $193,500•Hybrid

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a Software Systems Acquisition Engineer to support customers in acquiring cutting-edge software capabilities. The role is part of the growing Software Systems and Acquisition Department within the Information Systems and Cyber Division, which provides expertise in modern information systems and supports software-intensive systems for intelligence, defense, civilian, and commercial customers. The engineer provides software systems engineering expertise throughout the acquisition lifecycle, from pre-acquisition planning and source selection through development, integration and test, and deployment. The role involves working closely with customers and contractors on complex acquisition programs, advising on iterative software development methods, leading engineering analyses and studies, researching difficult problems, and mentoring junior staff. This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, California, requiring at least four days onsite. Domestic overnight travel may be needed, approximately 10–15% of the time. Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required for clearance eligibility.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field, with emphasis in computer science, software engineering, computer or information systems, management sciences, or a closely related technical discipline.
7–12 years of professional software engineering experience.
Hands-on experience developing complex software-reliant systems.
Experience using Agile/DevSecOps software development or Agile project management.
Ability to take initiative, complete tasks successfully, and collaborate effectively.
Willingness to travel overnight domestically, approximately 10–15% if needed.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.

Nice To Haves

Active or recent SSBI (Single Scope Background Investigation) and ability to obtain and maintain SCI access.
Advanced degree in a relevant field from an accredited program.
Experience in at least two of the following: federal government acquisition programs, MBSE/digital engineering, software processes/metrics/quality, data science practices, software process improvement, or software test design.
Current certification in one or more relevant technologies, such as Scrum Master, Product Owner, Scaled Agile Framework, cloud architect, or certified solutions architect, with corresponding experience.
Familiarity with space/missile acquisition policies, space/missile systems, or advanced space/missile technologies.
PMP, DAWIA Program Manager Level II or III, or other relevant acquisition certifications.

Responsibilities

Provide software systems engineering expertise to support software-reliant systems acquisition from pre-acquisition planning through source selection, development, integration and test, and deployment.
Work with customers and contractors to shape and execute software-related aspects of complex acquisition programs.
Advise customers on rapid iterative and incremental software development approaches, including Agile, Scrum, Scaled Agile Framework, and DevSecOps.
Lead engineering analyses and studies involving software requirements development, verification and validation approaches, readiness reviews, risk management, technology planning and insertion, performance assessments, and market research.
Research challenging problems, test hypotheses, and develop innovative approaches and tools.
Mentor junior staff.

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 benefits of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service, plus matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested upon hire.
Flexible spending accounts.
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
Relocation assistance.
Professional growth and development programs.
Education assistance programs.
Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.