GEOINT Acquisition 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.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 Systems Engineering department within GDO leverages Aerospace core competencies to support program objectives throughout the system lifecycle. By applying robust systems engineering practices and in-depth knowledge of both hardware and mission requirements, the department delivers technical recommendations and solutions across multiple programs. As a Payload Systems Senior Project Engineer, you will work closely with the customer and colleagues to effectively lead matrixed engineering in support of next generation systems.The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site in Chantilly, VA.What You’ll Be Doing Lead technical acquisition efforts for complex space programs from early development through design phasesServe as primary technical point of contact, maintaining stakeholder alignment and providing expert advisory support throughout the acquisition lifecycleAssess payload designs using optical systems expertise to ensure technical rigor and mission complianceDevelop mission CONOPS, requirements, and technical documentation that drive evaluation processes and acquisition decisionsCoordinate cross-organizational teams of Aerospace Engineering Technology Group (ETG) Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for technical assessments, issue resolution, and proof-of-concept demonstrationsWork in a fast-paced environment requiring strategy, critical thinking, and collaborationWhat You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements for Sr. Project Engineer – Electro-Optical and Payload Systems Engineering include:Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or related field12+ years of progressively more responsible electro-optical engineering experienceTechnical expertise in electro-optical systems, including optical development, modeling and analysis, focal plane testing, or related technologiesExperience leading or coordinating multi-disciplinary engineering teams in support of complex space system programsProven experience successfully interacting with or working in a program office environment, such as a mixed working environment of customers, SETA, and FFRDCWillingness to travel domestically as frequently as once a monthThis 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 clearanceHow You Can Stand OutIt would be impressive if you have one or more of these:Advanced degree in engineering, science, mathematics, or related fieldExperience with IR electro-optical systemsUnderstanding of systems engineering processes used in government space acquisition, including requirements development and verification, technical evaluations, and reference architecturesPrior development of analysis tools, data processing frameworks, or performance modeling capabilitiesPrior experience in experimental design, optical systems alignment, and characterization testingPrior experience working in an engineering matrix supporting program office and customer leadershipWe 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)$166,400.00 - $249,600.00Pay 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 assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe 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 CommitmentThe Aerospace Corporation is an equal o