Ground Systems Engineer

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.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

The Ground Systems Engineer in the Space Rapid Capabilities Directorate within the Agile Acquisition Division will support the development and integration of a critical ground system for the Space Rapid Capabilities Office (SpRCO). The SpRCO is rapidly developing and fielding highly classified critical space capabilities for the space enterprise. The Ground Systems Engineer will actively participate in all phases of the ground development to ensure operationally dominant space capabilities are delivered at the speed of warfighting relevance. This includes technical support for vehicle to ground system integration, development of command and control services, providing engineering support and contractor oversight of the acquisition, development of evolving system architectures to support operations testing, readiness, and on-orbit operations.

Work Model

This is an on-site position based at the Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM or Colorado Springs, CO.

What You’ll Be Doing

Coordinate with Government, SETA, and contractor teams to field a critical ground systemSupport program reviews, design, development, test, and transition to operations effortsUnderstand and ensure implementation of requirements for ground system design, mission concept of operations, prototype and test, initial flight checkout, flight operations, and operational transition supportProvide mission assurance and assist with ground architecture development and integration efforts in a commercial cloud environmentIdentify risk areas and mitigation efforts to meet mission objectivesWork closely with Program Manager (O-5)Solicit and oversee members of the Aerospace Engineering Technical Group (ETG) to employ their expertise on critical problems the local program office may find difficult to solveRoutinely present status updates to Senior Material Leaders (O-6) and Space SpRCO Director (SES-2)Interface with multiple government agencies to provide capability to the warfighter

Minimum Requirements

What You Need to be Successful

BS degree in engineering, mathematics, physical sciences, or related STEM field is required Direct space experience is required (satellite ground development or operations)12 or more years of progressively responsible experience in systems engineering or program managementDemonstrated ability to work within teamsDemonstrated ability to work in a highly dynamic Program Office environment with a mix of government, FFRDC, and SETA personnelExcellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills; experience presenting and writing technical informationTravel is requiredThis position requires a current TS/SCI security clearance with SAP eligibility, which is issued by the US Government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these

Advanced degree in technical discipline (engineering, science or math)Extensive satellite operations experience to include satellite ground system development and / or testingExtensive satellite design / integration Systems Engineering experience Systems Engineering experience with rapid operational systemsAn excellent personal technical reputation and a record of personal technical achievementProgram office and management experienceWorking knowledge of expertise from across the Aerospace corporation, especially subject matter experts and laboratory operations with the ability to support customer needs

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.

(Min - Mid - Max)

$123,000 - $162,200 - $201,400

Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

Operate StrategicallyLead Change   Engage with Impact   Foster Innovation   Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include

Comprehensive health care and wellness plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(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 hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at ieo.mailbox@aero.org. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.