Mission 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 xLab is an organization within the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) which is responsible for developing systems—including prototypes, instruments, and pathfinders—to solve complex customer challenges within accelerated timeframes. In today’s environment, that means moving fast! Once a new capability is successfully demonstrated, xLab also shares responsibility for establishing an achievable transition path to industry, a program of record, or other applicable destinations.

The xLab is seeking an experienced Mission Systems Engineer with a passion for solving complex problems and driving projects from concept to successful delivery and operations. In this hands-on role, you’ll be at the forefront of innovation, working in a collaborative Integrated Product Team with engineers from across the company to identify enabling technologies, lead key system trade-offs, and implement technical solutions that meet critical mission objectives.

This is a “roll up your sleeves” Systems Engineering role, where you’ll be deeply involved in systems integration, testing, and delivering real-world solutions that make a difference. If you thrive in dynamic environments and enjoy tackling technical challenges head-on, we want you on our xLab team!

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead systems engineering efforts for prototype development, from concept through integration and testing, in a small, dynamic team environment (10-20 staff).
• Serve as the Systems Engineer/Integrator for systems that combine Aerospace payloads and commercial small satellite buses.
• Manage system architecture, requirements development, and key technical decisions across electrical, mechanical, thermal, software, and other disciplines.
• Develop and maintain key systems engineering artifacts, including interface control documents, design reviews, and verification/validation plans.
• Oversee integration, test, and delivery, ensuring system readiness and performance through functional checkout, environmental testing, spacecraft commissioning, and mission operations.
• Collaborate with local program offices and cross-functional teams to support prototype development and ensure effective technology transfer to government or industry programs.
• Extend xLab’s innovative prototyping solutions to customers on the east coast, fostering collaboration across regions.

Work Model:

This role is 100% onsite.

What You Need to Be Successful – Engineering Specialist, Enterprise Systems Engineering

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of experience in prototype development or technology insertion.
• Expertise in mission concept development, requirements flow-down, and technology maturation.
• Experience throughout the full systems engineering lifecycle, with hands-on work in labs.
• Strong skills in technical presentations and reviews (e.g., SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR).
• Ability to work independently with minimal guidance.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Current SECRET clearance with ability to upgrade to TS/SCI.

What You Need to Be Successful – Senior Engineering Specialist, Enterprise Systems Engineering

• 12+ years of experience in advanced prototype development or technology insertion.
• Proven track record of developing innovative solutions or reshaping existing ones.
• Experience leading hardware or software projects and maturing ideas into prototypes.

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics, or related technical field.
• Strong technical foundation in space missions and associated ground systems.
• Broad hands-on design and test experience across multiple technical disciplines (e.g., electrical, software, thermal).
• Experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams through system design and delivery.
• Familiarity with multiple U.S. government space mission areas.
• Experience developing advanced technology demonstration systems and space security programs.
• Current TS/SCI 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)

$117,300 - $175,900

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 peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.