Space Systems Integration and Test Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

23h•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 Systems Engineering Division (SED) offers unparalleled expertise in systems engineering to the U.S. government and various public and private agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, consortia, and commercial companies involved in the advanced development and application of space systems. From systems CONOPs and architecture development to system design and analysis, mission assurance, cost and schedule assessment, and economic market analysis, SED leverages a vast array of engineering and business disciplines across a and dynamic portfolio of space programs and national challenges spanning the total space system lifecycle. The Systems Integration and Test Office (SITO) is responsible for creating and reviewing system functional, performance, and operationally relevant test programs for internal and external customer space, ground, and user segment systems. Responsible for performing systems integration and test tasks related to mission and system threads, interface definition, technology insertion, and use of system integration tools and techniques. Additional duties may include the following: The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo CA (or alternative locations at Colorado Springs CO, or Chantilly VA).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related technical field.
5 years of knowledge in Test and Evaluation (T&E), verification of space-to-ground interface requirements (including space-to-space and ground-to-ground), systems engineering, and/or operations of space systems, satellites, and/or ground systems infrastructure within the U.S. government agencies and/or aerospace industry.
Understanding of space system (and/or system of systems) architecture and satellite operations including orbital mechanics, satellite subsystems (e.g., spacecraft bus, payload), ground system functions (command and control, telemetry and mission data processing, and space-to-ground data links and protocols).
Experience with systems (and/or system of systems) integration planning, execution, and test.
Demonstrated ability to successfully work in a team environment with strong communication skills.
Willing to travel.
Active Secret security clearance (or ability to obtain one).
8 years of knowledge in Test and Evaluation (T&E), systems engineering, and/or operations of space systems, satellites, and/or ground systems infrastructure within the U.S. government agencies and/or aerospace industry.
Working knowledge of Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) Test and Evaluation processes and documentation, including familiarity with DoDI 5000 series acquisition policies, Developmental Tests (DT), Operational Tests (OT), integrated test strategies, Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMP), Systems Engineering Management Plans (SEMP) development and execution.
Experience with test planning, execution, and analysis using test management software, simulation environments, statistical tools, and technical reporting for U.S. government agency evaluation and decision processes.
Ability to independently lead multiple concurrent tasks, build and manage teams, and communicate technical information clearly and persuasively.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degrees in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related technical field.
Mission testing and integration knowledge and experience for specific U.S. Space Force (USSF), Intelligence Community (IC), or commercial customers (e.g., system requirements, system (and/or system of systems) integration and testing, spacecraft subsystems, manufacturing, test, and/or spacecraft/ground operations).
Knowledge of cloud/virtual architecture and agile testing methodologies for software integration and test.
Familiarity with MBSE (Model Based System Engineering) and its usage as well as other automated test tool skills.
Ability to leverage AI technologies to optimize testing workflows and integration efficiency.
Active TS/SCI clearance (or ability to obtain one).

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end systems engineering and integration across mission-critical interfaces including space-to-space, space-to-ground, ground-to-ground, and cross-segment integration for space vehicle, ground control, user segments, and communication networks.
Develop and execute comprehensive system integration and test plans including Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMP), Systems Integration Plans (SIP), System Engineering Plans (SEP), System Test Plans (STP), and Systems Engineering Management Plans (SEMP) that support all acquisition lifecycle phases and milestone decision reviews.
Plan, conduct, and analyze Developmental Test and Operational Test (DT/OT) events for complete space and ground systems ensuring compliance with government and commercial policies, standards, and best practices for systems test planning and execution.
Review and evaluate requirements for space and ground systems, engineering models, simulations, test beds, and special test equipment ensuring appropriate verification and validation techniques throughout program development.

Benefits

Competitive compensation package
Industry-leading 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