Systems Director - Space-Based Interceptor System Integration and Launch

The Aerospace Corporation•Huntsville, AL
•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 Special Programs Division supports a broad array of Combat Power missions covering the entire threat response chain which includes the multidomain effects needed for space superiority. These programs include major system acquisitions for multiple ground and space segments, future architecture definition at the data/software/hardware levels, and research and technology for continuous evolution of space warfighting capabilities. 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 multiple common elements that integrate with a larger layered missile defense system. We are looking for a Systems Director - Space-Based Interceptor System Integration and Launch Engineering to lead the SBI System Integration and Launch team that directly advises the government SBI Program Office on the development of the space segment of this novel missile defense capability.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM field or equivalent technical area of study
  • 12 or more years of relevant professional or educational experience
  • Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills for interactions at all levels of corporate and government leadership
  • Proven leadership ability to operate strategically, including leading teams contributing to strategic objectives
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate across organizations and manage competing priorities
  • Track record of delivering results through effective delegation while holding oneself accountable for results
  • This position requires a current and active Top Secret/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government.
  • U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Nice To Haves

  • Demonstrated experience in space systems engineering, missile defense technologies, and/or satellite operations
  • Proven track record of creating and leading multidisciplinary teams in high-stakes environments
  • Demonstration of excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with government agencies, industry partners, and contractors are necessary for maintaining strong relationships and ensuring alignment among all parties
  • Demonstrates enterprise-level perspective with prior Program Office(s) and ETG experience
  • Knowledge of rigorous testing and evaluation processes, including on-orbit demonstrations and live-fire tests
  • Experience with novel approaches in rapid capability development and deployment
  • Demonstrated management skills including budgeting, staff development, and strategic planning
  • Knowledge of Aerospace practices and policies relevant to department leadership

Responsibilities

  • Building and leading a dynamic team that provides technical expertise to the government Space-Based Interceptor Program Office (SBI PO) System Integration and Launch
  • Exemplify Aerospace corporate values of objectivity and integrity when serving as a trusted agent to the Material Leader of the SBI System Integration and senior government customers
  • Enabling direct reports to lead efforts to bring impactful technical expertise to the government and industry from SMEs across the corporation
  • Collaborating effectively with the broader layered defense architecture team and external stakeholders
  • Establishing a collaborative work environment that fosters a culture of innovation within the team to facilitate novel acquisition approaches for rapid capability development
  • Defining the Space Segment’s objectives and communicating them to subordinates, management, and interfacing matrix organizations to ensure alignment, clarity, and coordinated efforts towards achieving strategic goals and successful program execution.

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
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