Test and Integration 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.

Job Summary

The Systems Integration and Test Office (SITO), the place Aerospace goes for integration and test, is currently looking for a Senior Engineering Specialist in Aerospace locations supporting the National Capital Region. This position supports flight and ground segment programs executed across multiple mission areas, including satellite bus and payload integration, spacecraft ground systems, small satellite experimentation, prototyping, and rapid acquisition; nuclear weapons design and acquisition; and nuclear weapons security and non-proliferation.

SITO is the Aerospace Engineering Technology Group (ETG) source of expertise in spacecraft and satellite systems integration — including on-orbit technology insertion and systems engineering applied to operationally realistic, mission-representative testing. SITO staff support all program phases, from pre-contract assistance with concept of operations and mission architecture, through integration planning, system-level test planning, design and development activities, spacecraft build and integration, launch and on-orbit verification, and transition to satellite operations. This position represents a significant career opportunity to grow division tasking and help shape solutions to our customers' hardest spacecraft integration and test challenges.

Work Model: This full-time position will be located onsite in Chantilly, VA.

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Develop and implement cutting-edge satellite test and integration methodologies including agile practices, enterprise performance testing, and proliferated constellation strategies

• Lead coordination and integration efforts across Government, SETA, and contractor teams to successfully field highly classified mission-critical spacecraft systems for national security, civil and commercial satellite programs

• Direct spacecraft test planning and execution activities including test architecture design, operational testing, data evaluation, anomaly resolution, and residual risk assessment for space systems

• Support requirements development and validation by establishing verifiable spacecraft and payload requirements, defining engineering models/simulations/satellite test beds, and ensuring appropriate verification techniques during requirements definition

• Deliver 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 for both new and existing space programs

• Ensure end-to-end program success from requirements definition through Launch, Initialization, and On-Orbit Operations phases, with focus on spacecraft interface and launch-to-operations transition requirement validation

What You Need to be Successful 

Minimum Requirements:

• BS degree in engineering, mathematics, or physical sciences is required 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 a mix of government, FFRDC, and SETA personnel 

• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills; experience presenting and writing technical information 

• Some travel is required

• Current TS/SCI or Q clearance is required 

How You Can Stand Out 

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

• Advanced degree in aerospace engineering, astronautics, or 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

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 - Max)

$160,300.00 - $240,500.00Pay 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 Strategically
• Lead 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 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

We are all unique, from various 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 employer. 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 [email protected] . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.