Space Missions Economist

The Aerospace Corporation•Greenbelt, MD

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. Building on The Aerospace Corporation's reputation as a trusted, impartial advisor with integrity and dedication to mission success, the Civil Systems Group (CSG) combines deep technical expertise with market-leading innovation to help our customers solve complex systems engineering and integration challenges. CSG is organized by core customer-facing lines of business to manage and grow programs within NASA, NOAA, and the NNSA, while extending our capabilities to other civilian federal government agencies fully integrated within Aerospace rules, regulations, processes, values, and behaviors. The Civil Systems NASA Programs Division (NPD) Space Missions Directorate (SMD) oversees the success of multi-agency operational satellite programs for which NASA leads mission system development and integration. The directorate supports a broad portfolio of missions, including Landsat, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Observations, Space Weather Observations (SWO), and Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) Observations, that rely on seamlessly integrated systems. These systems combine spacecraft buses, instrument suites, ground stations, and command, control, and data processing networks, all managed by a global team of engineers and operations staff. Success in these complex programs depends on a disciplined, systems-engineering approach that carefully coordinates development, procurement, systems integration, operational readiness, and the transition to full operation. Complementing this technical mission, the team supports the delivery of cutting-edge economic analyses that validate these programs’ value to the American taxpayer. For these missions to obtain funding, they rely on studies that demonstrate fiscal and societal benefits. By employing robust quantitative methods and comprehensive cost-benefit analyses, the team evaluates the impacts of satellite systems and supports strategic funding decisions. We are looking for a Space Missions Economist (Project Engineer- Economic & Market Analysis). In this role, you will conduct critical economic studies using data-driven models essential for shaping next-generation satellite systems and infrastructure investments. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in Greenbelt, MD.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Economics (preferred from an accredited institution) with a minor or complementary coursework in Mathematics, Statistics, or related fields.
A minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible professional experience in economic assessment, with proven expertise in cost–benefit and economic impact analyses related to satellite programs.
Direct experience in earth-observing satellite Cost-Benefit Economic Assessment.
Demonstrated ability to co-author multi-agency reports and advise senior-level officials using data-driven insights.
Proficiency with data analysis tools (e.g., R, STATA, Python) and visualization platforms (e.g., Tableau, PowerBI, Microsoft Excel).
Strong written and oral communication skills, with an ability to translate complex technical data into actionable economic recommendations.
Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately 10% (as required)
This position may require 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

Master’s degree in Economics or a related quantitative discipline, with a concentration in Statistical Analysis and Econometric Methods.
Experience working within federal agencies or on government-contracted economic projects, preferably related to satellite or space systems investment.
Direct experience in NOAA weather satellite Cost-Benefit Economic Assessment.
Prior involvement in inter-agency collaborations that integrate technical performance data with economic policy recommendations.
Certification in Blockchain, Cloud, or Big Data or experience with large-scale statistical databases and SQL Server is a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead economic appraisals for a variety of space missions by integrating quantitative models with technical and stakeholder data.
Conduct and co-author comprehensive cost-benefit economic assessments.
Collaborate with cross-disciplinary team, including engineers, scientists, and policy experts, to translate technical satellite performance data into measurable economic outcomes.
Develop, implement, and refine data-driven forecasting models and valuation frameworks consistent with federal guidelines (e.g., OMB methodologies).
Prepare detailed written and visual reports and deliver presentations to senior leadership and multi-agency teams in support of federal investment decisions.
Ensure that all economic analyses align with both programmatic objectives and best economic practices.

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.
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