SIGINT/GEOINT Modeling & Simulation 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 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-enabled mission effects.

The Surveillance and Navigation Architecture Performance Department (SNAPD) in the Integrated Performance Subdivision aspires to be the premier force advising the evolution of national security and civil space enterprises, leveraging our modeling and simulation (M&S) expertise to evaluate end-to-end architecture performance.

We are seeking a SIGINT/GEOINT M&S Engineer to evaluate space-based intelligence architectures using sophisticated simulation tools. In this role, you will apply your expertise in signals intelligence, geospatial intelligence, and geolocation to support requirements verification, analyses-of-alternatives, and mission performance modeling that directly informs national security.

Work Model:

This is a full-time position based in Chantilly, VA, which requires primarily onsite work (4 days minimum onsite).

What You’ll Be Doing:

- Lead small, collaborative teams to assess legacy and emerging space-based architectures using advanced simulation tools, driving recommendations that shape national security capabilities.
- Translate customer needs into actionable project plans, guiding analysts and developers while building and leading multi-disciplinary technical teams to deliver high-quality results.
- Partner directly with government leaders, contractors, and fellow Aerospace engineers to tackle complex technical challenges and deliver impactful analysis and recommendations.
- Serve as a technical mentor to junior staff in one or more department focus areas, coordinating training and delivering a strategy for maintaining bench depth in department capabilities.
- Communicate your findings through clear, compelling presentations and reports tailored to audiences ranging from technical experts to senior leadership.
- Support development and sustainment of the organization’s analysis and simulation tools and capabilities.

What You Need to be Successful:

Minimum Requirements for the Engineering Specialist:

- B.S degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering, mathematics, or related technical discipline.
- 5+ years of relevant technical modeling & simulation, signal processing, systems analysis, or related technical disciplines.
- Professional experience with one or more of the following subjects: space-related modeling and simulation, SIGINT, geolocation, mission data processing, signal and image processing, RF engineering, radar systems, communications systems, algorithm design, or mathematical modeling.
- Experience with programming/scripting languages such as Python, C++, Fortran, or MATLAB. Willingness to learn new tools and languages.
- This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance with CI Polygraph, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Senior Engineering Specialist include:

- 10+ years of progressively responsible technical experience
- Demonstrated technical leadership, such as leading project teams, mentoring early-career engineers, or driving technical strategy
- Knowledge in one or more of these specific national security space or intelligence mission areas: signals intelligence, space surveillance, geo-spatial intelligence, or space protection
- Strong record of personal accountability and adaptability to changing customer expectations

What Will Help You Excel:

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

- Graduate degree in one of the fields of study mentioned above
- Technical knowledge of SIGINT satellite systems
- Familiarity with the next generation SIGINT architecture or relevant mission knowledge
- M&S experience in one of these areas: Performance Assessment, Geolocation, RF link budgets, Antenna modeling, Signal detection
- Performance modeling experience with at least one space subsystem (antennas, receivers, mission payloads)
- Knowledge of Intelligence Community or US Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios

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)
$129,000.00 - $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:

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Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

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Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

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Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

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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

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Flexible spending accounts

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Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

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Relocation assistance

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Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

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Education assistance programs

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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.