Senior Modeling and Simulation Communications 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 Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace’s strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities. 

The Communication and Ground Architectures Performance Department (CGAPD) within the Integrated Performance Subdivision (IPS) delivers modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) solutions that help shape how the nation’s most critical space communication and ground systems are designed, acquired, and evolved. Our modeling and performance assessments around communication architectures, networks, and mission management strategies directly inform and influence decisions for multiple customers including USAF/USSF, the Intelligence Community, and other government customers. 

 

Work Model:  

This full-time position requires at least 4 days/week of onsite work in Colorado Springs, COS, or El Segundo, CA. 

 

What You’ll Be Doing  

• Lead analysis teams whose recommendations directly shape acquisition and development decisions for the nation’s space-based and terrestrial communication systems 

• Serve as a go-to technical authority in one of more of the areas of: communication and ground architecture performance (e.g. coverage and capacity assessments, architecture trade studies, end-to-end architecture evaluations), network modeling (e.g. topology design and optimization, throughput/latency analysis, network resilience) or scheduling and mission management (e.g. satellite collection/contact scheduling, resource allocation, CONOPS development) 
• Perform end-to-end (E2E) performance evaluations and analysis-of-alternatives (AoA) using internally developed analysis capabilities 

• Drive the development of staff through training, mentoring, and coaching across a national organization 

• Own the coordination of complex technical tasks across multiple customers, balancing resources and priorities to deliver time-sensitive analysis 

• Translate complex analysis into clear, compelling briefings for technical leads, senior leadership, and government customers 

• Drive innovation and modernization of M&S capabilities supporting the analysis of communication and ground systems 

 

What You Need to be Successful  

 

Minimum Requirements:  

 

• B.S degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, computer science, or other engineering with a strong communications background 

• Typically 10 or more years of industry experience, with demonstrated experience leading engineering studies and analysis teams, managing/coordinating complex technical tasks, and translating customer needs into tasks for team members 

• Significant professional experience in one or more of the following specific national security space or intelligence mission areas: communication and ground infrastructures, signals intelligence, geo-spatial intelligence, space surveillance, navigation systems or space protection 

• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to change, and to help customers manage ambiguity 

• Excellent interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively with government customers, program offices, and contractors 

• Experience with one or more software languages that may include Python, C++, or MATLAB 

• This position requires an active TS/SCI clearance 

 

How You Can Stand Out  

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

• Graduate degree in one of the fields of study mentioned above 

• Current TS/SCI security clearance with polygraph 

• Proficiency with one or more software languages that may include Python, C++, or MATLAB 

• Significant experience in Intelligence Community or US Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios 

• Significant experience in modeling SATCOM architecture performance trades for source selection activities 

• Significant experience in modeling space and ground networking performance 

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.