RAND · 1 week ago
Astronautical Engineer - Space Systems, Simulation, and Policy Analysis
Santa Monica, CA (Greater Los Angeles Area)
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$108K/yr - $299K/yr
5+ years expRAND is a non-profit, non-partisan organization renowned for its rigorous and objective research. They are seeking talented Astronautical Engineers to join their multidisciplinary research teams to address critical national security and space policy challenges through innovative projects that inform decisionmakers.
EducationGovernmentHealth CareMedicalNon Profit
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Develop research approaches to solve complex policy and technical problems
Execute research using a broad range of analytically rigorous quantitative and/or qualitative methods
Interpret and synthesize research results to support decision-making on space and defense policy issues
Communicate findings clearly through written reports, briefings, and presentations
Work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and policy analysts
Assess current and future space systems (e.g., satellites, missiles, spacecraft) in support of the Department of War and other sponsors
Conduct analyses in one or more of the following areas:
Space systems performance, orbital mechanics, and requirements assessments
Space mission design, analysis, and optimization
Missile defense
Modeling, simulation, and mathematical modeling
Apply knowledge in spacecraft design, astrodynamics, propulsion, controls, bioastronautics, autonomous systems, and related technologies
Qualification
Required
Excellent analytic skills
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English, both orally and in writing
Ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team
Strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity
Evidence of strong skills in astronautical engineering, as demonstrated through experience in spacecraft programs and research centers
Presentations and publication records
Coursework in astronautical engineering
Experience in spacecraft systems and design, including a fundamental understanding of astrodynamics, propulsion, and power and flight controls across a range of conditions
Evaluating space systems, missions, and technology for concept development, cost, or effectiveness (e.g., survivability, lethality, etc.)
Using sophisticated computer modeling and simulation (M&S) tools
Knowledge of model-based systems engineering principles and tools (e.g., operations analysis, subsystem models, emulators, etc.)
A Ph.D., M.S., or B.S. in an Engineering field (or similar field such as mathematics, operations research, physical sciences, computer science, information science, or closely related discipline)
Strong preference for those with aeronautical, aerospace, systems, or mechanical engineering degrees
Applicants with a masters degree must have at least 5 years of professional or academic experience
Applicants with a bachelors degree must have at least 10 years of professional or academic experience
Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance
Successful applications will include documentation in the application package of academic and professional activities that meet stated qualifications
A writing sample of 3 pages or more is required when applying for this position
Preferred
Experience supporting higher-level analyses using classified Air Force or DoW engagement and mission M&S tools
Space systems performance, orbital mechanics, mission design, or missile defense
Experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar modeling languages
Familiarity with military and intelligence community space mission areas and requirements
Research or analytic experience in government, industry, or academia
Preference will be given to those with strong astronautical coursework and educational experience
Benefits
Health insurance coverage
Life and disability insurance
Savings plan
Paid time-off
Company
RAND
RAND is a non-profit organization that provides objective research and public policy analysis services.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1.51MKey Investors
Foundation for Opioid Response EffortsAlfred P. Sloan Foundation
2024-03-07Grant· $0.39M
2013-01-01Grant· $1.12M
Leadership Team
R
Robert Case
Vice President, General Counsel, & Corporate Secretary
Michael Leiter
Chair, Board Of Trustees
Recent News
2025-11-12
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