Remote Sensing System Modeling and Simulation Specialist

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!

Within MPD, the Weather Remote Sensing Systems Department (WRSSD) supports Department of Defense (DOD) and Civil customers (NOAA/NASA) in all phases of Space Based Environmental Monitoring Program planning and execution. Areas of focus include Program planning and development, technology maturation, sensor performance, sensor anomaly resolution, requirements definition, data assessment, numerical weather modeling, environmental data product retrievals and algorithms, and sensor data exploitation. The WRSSD also partners with Aerospace’s Physical Sciences Laboratory to develop and test novel sensor solutions to meet the remote sensing needs of its customers. The WRSSD seeks an expert in weather sensors technology and products with strong technical programming skills. Experience with development of sensor simulation and modeling through application of digital engineering approaches, direct data product utility assessment, and data science applications is highly desired.

Work Model: This is a full time position offering a hybrid work model that combines 4 regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Digital tool development to benefit enterprise environmental remote sensing studies and foster adoption of Aerospace’s Digital Engineering initiative

• Perform technical analysis in support of space sensor acquisition Customers

• Develop techniques and tools related to weather remote sensing systems, including performance modeling, radiative transfer of microwave and electro-optical infrared sensors, and sensor trade study assessments

• Anticipate customer future needs and develop innovate capabilities and solutions to address such needs through novel sensor solutions

• Collaborate with a wide range of engineering disciplines to formulate and execute technical studies

• Prepare and present technical briefings

What You Need to be Successful - Member of Technical Staff

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in science, mathematics or engineering

• Two years or more years of relevant experience in environmental remote sensing or related field

• Knowledge of the DOD and NOAA/NASA environmental sensing space enterprise

• Strong scientific programming skills, including proficiency with Python programming

• Willing to travel domestically up to 20%

• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

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

• Four years of related experience in environmental remote sensing or related field

• Direct experience supporting Government programs in technical areas supported by the WRSSD

• Proven ability to form and lead technical teams

• Demonstrated experience applying systems engineering expertise to weather remote sensing systems

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Experience in phase retrieval techniques for optical system analysis.

• An active Top Secret SCI SSBI 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)

$110,400 - $193,500

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.