Space-Based Interceptor Technology Analysis Leader

The Aerospace Corporation • Huntsville, AL

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. The Defense Systems Group (DSG) provides analysis-based decision support to senior leaders on space architectures, policy and strategy, technology development, warfighter capability enablers, systems integration, defense industrial base, and threat reduction to help shape existing and future space missions across the national security space (NSS) enterprise. DSG is unique at Aerospace as it not only directly supports major customers, including the U.S. Space Force, U.S. Space Command, Air Force Material Command, and senior leadership at the Pentagon, but also provides a broad range of technical support across the national space enterprise, maintaining vertical responsibilities with customers’ portfolios as well as horizontal, matrixed responsibilities across the corporation. Additionally, DSG provides deep technical expertise to the Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) in the conception, design, acquisition, launch and operations of satellite, launch vehicle, ground control, and range systems. The Golden Dome missile defense system aims to counter the threat of ballistic, hypersonic, and other advanced threats from peer and near-peer adversaries as directed within the presidential executive order. Within the Golden Dome architecture, the Space-Based Interceptor (SBI) Program Office seeks to develop and deploy a proliferated constellation of space-based interceptors capable of boost-phase engagement of adversary missiles. The SBI interceptors will employ a Fire Control capability that is integrated with the overall Golden Dome missile defense system. We are looking for a Space-Based Interceptor Technology Analysis Leader to directly support the SBI Program Office to advise to the development of this novel missile defense capability. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in Huntsville, AL.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field or equivalent is required
• 8 or more years of relevant professional or educational experience in Systems Engineering
• Strong understanding of physics associated with orbital environments, re-entry, and endo-atmospheric design
• Excellent technical written and oral communication skills
• Willing to travel domestically approx. 25%
• This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government.
• U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
• 12 or more years of relevant professional in Systems Engineering
• Experience leading programs and research related to physics associated with orbital environments, re-entry, and endo-atmospheric design
• Excellent communication skills with experience working with the customer government and military leaders.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or higher in a directly relevant field of Engineering or Physics
• Demonstrated experience in space systems or missile defense engineering
• Deep knowledge of guidance, navigation, and controls associated with interceptor technology such as high-ΔV maneuvers and aerodynamic heating
• Understanding of relevant sensor technologies relating to terminal guidance of interceptors
• Experience with demonstration missions and/or prototyping missions is highly desirable
• Proven ability to execute tasks in a matrixed environment and establish effective working relationships with customers, addressing their needs, building relationships, and communicating effectively
• Demonstration of superior communication skills in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

• Directly advise the U.S. government on both endo- and exo-atmospheric technology maturation needs
• Provide objective engineering review of SBI designs to survive through challenging operational parameters such as high ΔV maneuvers, space environments, and atmospheric effects
• Integrate and refine terminal guidance sensor technologies that can reliably identify targets amid complex backgrounds, transforming sensor data into precise maneuver commands during engagement windows
• Ensure proper interfacing with fire control and common ground elements for interceptor designs
• Assist government in planning, execution, and documentation of critical test events
• Identify technical risks throughout the design and test phases, proactively developing mitigation strategies

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior