The Aerospace Corporation · 1 day ago
Senior Space Systems Engineering Lead
Chantilly, VA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$156K/yr - $234K/yr
12+ years expThe Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. They are seeking a Senior Space Systems Engineering Lead to lead technical concept development and operational implementation of a program portfolio, ensuring optimal integration of technical solutions across government partners.
AerospaceGovernmentInnovation ManagementMilitary
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Serve as the senior technical authority and integration leader for a multi-phase, multi-disciplinary space systems engineering effort
Promote collaboration across the Aerospace enterprise to ensure optimal integration of technical solutions
Lead both concept-level and implementation-level systems engineering to effectively integrate space-related systems and technologies across government partners
Create mission focused tasks for the Aerospace technical matrix, advocate for them with the Sponsor, and identify and manage the support
Elicit requirements for space-related solutions based on broad Sponsor mission objectives
Support the sponsor’s coordination among Intelligence Community partners, associated contractors, and development contractors
Advise key stakeholders—including senior customer leadership and program management—by providing insight on technical risks, issues, opportunities, and risk mitigation strategies
Qualification
Required
Bachelors or advanced degree from an accredited program in a physical science, engineering, or relevant STEM field
12 or more years of relevant industry work experience in systems engineering /architecting of solutions in the space and communications domains
At least 5 years relevant experience in the conceptualization and implementation of space-based capabilities to achieve mission
At least 5 years supporting US Space Force and broader DoD mission areas, including both capabilities and operational insight
Proven expertise in system anomaly root-cause investigation and solution development
Demonstrated history of successful collaboration with internal matrix support organizations, Sponsors, external mission partners, and with associated and development contractors
Demonstrated solid ability to convey complex technical topics both orally and in writing. Effectively adapts communication style for varied audiences, ensuring clear understanding among technical and non-technical stakeholders
Willing to travel domestically, approximately 10%
Strong experience with the SPD Sponsor and/or mission area
This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
Preferred
Advanced degree from an accredited program in a physical science, engineering, or relevant STEM field
Proven advanced expertise in communicating intricate technical concepts with precision and impact. Skilled at tailoring messages for diverse audiences, including senior Sponsor leadership, while translating detailed technical data into actionable, mission-relevant insights
Demonstrated experience collaborating with multiple space-related technical disciplines, particularly in delivering resilient space mission solutions
Prior experience in a dynamic program office with regular customer engagement
Proven design-through-disposal expertise in missions within the space domain
Hands-on experience with dynamic space mission concept design—integrating aspects such as RPO, PNT, and satellite architecture—to develop mission-enabling solutions
A history of identifying capability gaps and formulating enterprise-level technical trade studies and investment strategies
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
Company
The Aerospace Corporation
As the government’s preeminent space innovation partner, Aerospace brings technical expertise to advance the nation's missions in space.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Tanya Pemberton
President & CEO
Ashley Kowalski
Project Leader - International Partnerships
Recent News
Washington Technology
2026-01-12
2025-12-27
2025-12-21
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