Test and Integration Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation • Chantilly, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Systems Integration and Test Office (SITO) is seeking a Senior Engineering Specialist to support programs in the National Capital Region. The role supports flight and ground segment programs across mission areas that include satellite bus and payload integration, spacecraft ground systems, small-satellite experimentation, prototyping, rapid acquisition, nuclear weapons design and acquisition, and nuclear weapons security and non-proliferation. SITO provides expertise in spacecraft and satellite systems integration, on-orbit technology insertion, and systems engineering for operationally realistic, mission-representative testing.

The position contributes across all program phases, from concept of operations and mission architecture through integration planning, system-level test planning, design and development, spacecraft build and integration, launch and on-orbit verification, and transition to satellite operations. It offers an opportunity to grow division tasking and shape solutions to spacecraft integration and test challenges. The role is full-time and onsite in Chantilly, Virginia, with some travel required. A current TS/SCI or Q clearance is required.

Requirements

• BS degree in engineering, mathematics, or physical sciences, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• 12 or more years of progressively responsible experience in systems engineering or program management.
• Knowledge of space and space-related systems.
• Demonstrated ability to form and lead teams.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a highly dynamic Program Office environment with government, FFRDC, and SETA personnel.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, including experience presenting and writing technical information.
• Current TS/SCI or Q clearance.
• Some travel is required.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree in aerospace engineering, astronautics, or a related space systems discipline.
• Systems engineering experience with rapid operationally responsive satellite systems.
• Hands-on experience with spacecraft integration and test (I&T), environmental test campaigns (thermal vacuum, vibration, EMI/EMC), or launch site operations.
• An excellent personal technical reputation and a record of personal technical achievement in spacecraft or payload engineering.
• Embedded customer support, independent review, or advisory board experience on satellite programs.
• Working knowledge of expertise across The Aerospace Corporation, especially spacecraft subject matter experts and laboratory/test facility operations.
• Knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and agile methodologies as applied to spacecraft development.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement satellite test and integration methodologies, including agile practices, enterprise performance testing, and proliferated constellation strategies.
• Lead coordination and integration across Government, SETA, and contractor teams to field highly classified, mission-critical spacecraft systems for national security, civil, and commercial satellite programs.
• Direct spacecraft test planning and execution, including test architecture design, operational testing, data evaluation, anomaly resolution, and residual risk assessment.
• Support requirements development and validation by establishing verifiable spacecraft and payload requirements, defining engineering models, simulations, and satellite test beds, and ensuring suitable verification techniques.
• Provide integration support to satellite programs and Launch and Early Orbit Phases (LEOPs) and/or Transition Implementation Plan (TIP) through integration reviews, failure investigations, engineering studies, and acquisition support.
• Support end-to-end program success from requirements definition through launch, initialization, and on-orbit operations, focusing on spacecraft interfaces and validation of launch-to-operations transition requirements.

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 based on years of service and 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.

What This Job Offers

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