Senior Networking 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.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration.   With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions.  Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

The Network Systems Department (NSD) is seeking an experienced network systems architect to lead the development of cutting-edge space and ground network solutions. You will design future network architectures, develop innovative concepts, prototype new technologies, and solve complex networking challenges for government and commercial customers. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in modern networking technologies, the ability to architect advanced space and ground networks, strong systems engineering leadership skills, and a track record of solving challenging technical problems.

This is a full-time, onsite position based in El Segundo, CA. 

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead multi-disciplinary engineering teams in developing and analyzing future network architectures and requirements

• Oversee development and implementation of advanced network protocols, routing algorithms, and Quality of Service (QoS) architectures

• Systems engineering tasks and projects through architecture definition, trade studies, analysis, modeling & simulation, and prototype development/validation

• Guide specialized technical studies and internal R&D projects to develop next-generation space and ground network concepts

• Identify and develop new business opportunities with new and existing customers

• Support sustainment and development of core network simulation, emulation, and modeling capabilities

• Collaborate with customers to determine their needs and convert that information to actionable technical direction for the teams to execute

• Coordinate tasks and participate in technical meetings for Space Systems Command (SSC), National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and civil/commercial customers

• Work closely with diverse teams including military officers, government civilians, prime contractors, SETA contractors, and other FFRDCs

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited university in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline

• Minimum 15 years of experience in progressively more responsible roles

• Expert-level understanding of OSI and TCP/IP models; Deep knowledge of routing and switching protocols; Cloud-based networking expertise

• Network design, analysis, and modeling & simulation/emulation with deep expertise in at least one network simulation/emulation framework; Significant data analysis expertise

• Software Defined Networking (SDN/SD-WAN) and virtualization

• Proficiency in rapid tool development using Python, MATLAB, or C/C++

• Hands-on knowledge of network testbed design, development, and implementation

• Familiarity with the latest networking and computing trends and technologies

• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills with the ability to convey complex technical information in briefings and technical reports

• Ability to travel to support customers at various locations

• Must be able to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance issued by the U.S. government

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Advanced degree (master's or PhD) in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline

• Experience with military and commercial satellite communication network engineering; In-depth understanding of emerging network architectures and technologies (5G, IoT, etc.)

• Network security and cybersecurity expertise; Zero Trust Architecture knowledge

• Familiarity with various government organizations and their acquisition processes, from requirements definition through implementation and testing

• Ability to generate proposals for business development on short notice

• Active TS/SCI security clearance

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)

$166,400.00 - $249,600.00

Pay 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.