Payload Space Systems Project Leader

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.The National Systems Group serves as the technical advisor to the Intelligence Community and its mission partners involved in the collection and distribution of national and tactical intelligence, including electronics programs, advanced technologies, ground and communications, imagery programs, and systems engineering and launch. The GEOINT Development Office (GDO) serves as the technical adviser for national intelligence electro-optical programs. The Payload Department within GDO leverages Aerospace’s core competencies and understanding of cutting-edge technologies to support payload hardware development, acquisition, and operation for the nation’s flagship national security space program.GDO Payload is seeking a Payload Space Systems Project Leader (Project Leader/Senior Project Leader - Electro - Optical Engineering) to apply systems engineering approaches to provide sound and objective technical recommendations and solutions to our customer and contractor community.  In this unique leadership position, you will manage a bicoastal Aerospace team comprised of matrix engineering and laboratory resources in support of existing and next generation payload hardware.This position requires 100% on-site work in Chantilly, VA, or El Segundo, CAWhat You’ll Be DoingIdentify payload-related hardware issues / risks, document mitigations, and make recommendations to government customers within a dynamic program office environment. Payload-related hardware includes multiple advanced electro-optical imaging sensor subsystems and their respective auxiliary equipmentServe as a principal technical representative to the customer, and facilitate communications with the broader customer payload communityLeading a diverse team of technical experts within Aerospace ETG to manage and mitigate all technical risks that arise throughout the entire acquisition life cycleEnsure effective collaboration and communication across GDO, related Aerospace program offices and Aerospace ETG staffMonitor and assist in development of budgets and other resource allocations to accomplish tasks within the payload groupWhat You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements for Project Leader – Electro – Optical Engineering: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering, mathematics, science, or related technical disciplineMinimum of 8 years of experience with electro-optics engineering and/or integration testing in roles of increasing responsibility, as well as leading teams in technical, architecture, strategy, and engineering projects and tasksWilling to travel domestically (up to 1 week per month)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 clearanceIn addition to the above, the Senior Project Leader – Electro – Optical Engineering requires the following Minimum of 12 years of experience with electro-optics engineering and integration testing in roles of increasing responsibilityProven track record leading major technical projects / teams or complex multi-disciplinary initiatives from initiation through completionHow You Can Stand OutIt would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Advanced degree (MS, PhD) in a relevant engineering or remote sensing fieldExpertise in visible and/or infrared (IR) electro-optical sensors and associated technology as well as mentoring experienceExisting working relationships with relevant Aerospace matrix engineering organizations to quickly bring resources to address customer needsKnowledge of the customer’s mission enterprise, existing remote sensing capabilities and mission partner’s needsExperience evaluating remote sensing payload trade studies and design assessments, and knowledge of typical remote sensing payload performance budgetsCommunication with a broad range of customers, technologists, program managers, system engineers, and senior government leadersWe 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)$132,900.00 - $257,100.00Pay Basis: AnnualLeadership CompetenciesOur 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 assistan