Communications 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.

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 Communication Systems Engineering Department (CSED) performs analysis, simulation, and laboratory activities to design and evaluate communication systems, signals, and signal processing algorithms for our customers. Key technical areas for the department include engineering communication systems, analyzing link performance, developing digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms, and developing complex simulations. The department also focuses on payload hardware design, space and terrestrial communication architectures, and requirements verification, alongside expertise in waveform design, position, navigation, timing systems, and electronic warfare.

As a Member of the Technical Staff/Senior Member of the Technical Staff, you will be modeling and simulating wireless communication system architectures and supporting laboratory activities to enable impactful analysis, research, and prototyping of communication system designs for a multitude of US government, civil, commercial, and international customers. Your technical expertise will help support various US Government military and national program needs as well as shape their futures!

Work Model:This position requires at least 3 days on-site in El Segundo, CA

What You’ll Be Doing

• Solve technical problems, under supervision and guidance, on projects involving:

  • Physical layer modeling & simulation

  • Communication link budget analysis

  • Communication waveform design and performance analysis

  • Digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm development

  • Hardware prototyping and testing in the laboratory and in the field

  • Development and evaluation of program requirements, interfaces, and verification processes

  • Evaluation of programs of record in various technical areas including satellite communications, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and electronic warfare (EW)

• Translate vague concepts into practical, well-defined, and methodical technical plans

• Communicate technical results clearly in written reports and presentations

What You Need to be Successful – Member of the Technical Staff

Minimum Requirements:

• B.S. in engineering, science, mathematics, or related discipline from an accredited university

• Two or more years of relevant industry technical experience

• Understanding of some communication systems and digital signal processing concepts (e.g., modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel effects, and link performance)

• Proficiency with a software language (MATLAB, Python, and/or C++) 

• The position requires the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance and additional accesses, which is issued by the US government. US citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Senior Member of the Technical Staff :

• Five or more years of relevant industry technical experience

• Demonstrable ability to complete project tasks effectively in a timely manner with little to no supervision

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including delivering technical presentations, writing technical reports, and interacting constructively across interdisciplinary and inter-organizational teams

How You Can Stand Out

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

• M.S. or Ph.D. in in either Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipline from an accredited university

• Experience with military and commercial RF satellite communication systems (hardware and software, systems engineering, RF system design requirements development, integration and test, system development, or related field)

• Working knowledge of US government programs in the areas of protected communications, navigation, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and/or electronic warfare (EW)

• Working knowledge of anti-jam waveforms, spread spectrum, beamforming, array processing, interference mitigation, and geolocation technologies

• A current and active TS/SCI and/or SAP security clearance issued by the US government

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)

$95,200 - $165,500

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.