Space Domain Awareness Modeling & Analysis 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 Sensor Modeling and Simulation Department (SMSD) supports all aspects of advanced remote sensing system development: designing and assessing the performance of optics and electro-optical focal plane arrays, modeling the end-to-end sensing system, simulating target scenes and atmospheres, developing innovative data processing and computer vision algorithms, and producing simulated data products for new applications. Our expertise, combined with sophisticated in-house laboratories and prototyping capabilities, enables SMSD to deliver innovative solutions to national space systems and civil customers.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at Chantilly, VA

What You’ll Be Doing

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Develop and refine models and simulations of space domain awareness (SDA) systems in optical and infrared wave bands

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Forge physics-based code to model and assess system performance against multiple requirements

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Construct techniques for defining system performance requirements and advise government customers on best practices and trade considerations

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Develop methodology and design associated experiments or collection campaigns to validate SDA system performance

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Evaluate the performance impact of different sensor configuration and/or implementation strategies in both hardware and operational aspects

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Collaborate with and/or lead small teams of engineers and scientists in developing end-to-end system and performance modeling tools across multiple software interfaces

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Present your work to government and other stakeholders to aid definition and verification of system requirements and performance

What You Need to be Successful – Engineering Specialist

Minimum Requirements:

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Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in in Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering, or another related discipline

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Eight years of experience after bachelor’s degree with remote sensing system modeling, simulation, design, data processing, calibration, characterization, phenomenology, and/or applications

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High aptitude for leadership and ability to work independently or collaboratively

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Strong scientific programming skills (particularly in C++ and Python) and familiarity with software version control systems (git)

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Analytical and creative problem-solving skills

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Strong written and oral communication skills

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Willingness to travel approximately 10% of time

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This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI 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 Sr. Engineering Specialist:

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Twelve years of experience after bachelor’s degree with remote sensing system modeling, simulation, design, data processing, calibration, characterization, phenomenology, and/or applications

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Demonstrated experience modeling SDA sensors

How You Can Stand Out

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

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Advanced degree from an accredited program in in Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering, or another related discipline

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Demonstrated experience with modeling and simulation of sensor performance in SDA (optical and infrared) systems

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Proficiency with image reduction pipelines (i.e., removal of bias, gain correction etc.)

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Familiarity with agile software development and Atlassian tools (Jira, Confluence).

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Working knowledge of FORTRAN

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Background in evaluating sensor hardware performance

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Proven track record in leadership and ability to mentor junior staff

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Current and active Top Secret/SCI 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)
$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.