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.
Job Summary
As Director of the Resilient MWTD (Missile Warning, Tracking, & Defense) directorate, you will play a pivotal role in the USSF’s transition to a new proliferated Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR) MEO/LEO Architecture. You and your team will focus on the acquisition and integration of space and ground elements of SSC’s proliferated Resilient MEO Missile Warning & Tracking system and associated ground elements. This spiral evolution program is developing/acquiring space and ground system in a series of Epochs every 2-3 years as we build the full constellation to meet MWTD requirements. As Director, you will lead the teams that work with the USSF contractors building the Epoch 1 & 2 SVs/PLs and Ground Entry Points (GEPs) as well as help the USG team define future Epochs and acquisition strategies. This role includes working across the USSF to interface with stakeholders from MDA, SDA, US Space Command, the IC, to help guide the evolution of the MTC systems and ensure that the data they produce is effectively delivered to the warfighter and end users.
To further our partnership with the USSF Program Office in this area, we are seeking an agile, motivated leader to serve as the Systems Director to support this expanding, high profile, mission area. This position manages Aerospace technical support to senior officers within Sys. Delta 84 (SSC/SN) and will coordinate with stakeholders from across the MWTD enterprise including the Space Development Agency, Missile Defense Agency, Intelligence Community, and more.
Work Model
This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA that combines 4 to 5 regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow.
What You’ll Be Doing
Lead, develop, recruit, and mentor a high-performing technical staff
Provide direct support to senior-level customers, staff, and Aerospace management, to identify and fulfill customer needs, consistent with the Aerospace FFRDC role
Identifying and directing innovation and risk reduction activities in support of the USG pivot toward proliferated Missile Warning, Tracking, Defense sensors
Guide the FFRDC team in evaluating contractor progress through the entire design, build, launch, and operational phases of each epoch and identify/mitigate risks along the way
Build and maintain relationships across the Missile Warning, Tracking, & Defense Enterprise, facilitate the exchange of information and analysis, and direct research tasks to address future space intelligence needs with effective assessments & recommendations.
Manage organizational resources and utilize best practices in a manner that meets customer needs, complies with customer and Aerospace polices and fulfills the requirements of the relevant Aerospace contracts
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for the Director- Engineering Program Management and Systems Engineering:
Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field is or other relevant field is required
10 or more years of progressively more responsible experience in engineering or other technical roles is required
Experience in multiple engineering and science disciplines, such as research and development, space and ground systems acquisition, systems engineering and systems integration
Demonstrated agility and ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced customer environment with a high degree of uncertainty, and a success-driven approach to tackle fast-paced and dynamic challenges
Demonstrated ability to build strong teams to meet customer needs
Exceptional communicator and proven team leader with a track record of driving collaboration and performance
This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
Advanced degree in a STEM field is strongly preferred
Understanding of the Aerospace role and the guidelines for appropriate use of an FFRDC
Experience with the OPIR and Missile Warning, Tracking, & Defense Enterprise
Experience with rapid proliferated acquisition programs
Experience with prototype and Class C Mission Acquisition/Assurance
Strong customer-oriented attitude with outstanding skills in coordinating exchanges between technical staff and the customer
Experience with the design, build, and LEOT phases of USSF SV/ground system procurement
Demonstrated ability to function effectively, efficiently, and collaboratively with limited supervision
Prior leadership or management experience with technical teams supporting USSF acquisition
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)
$168,200 - $252,400Pay 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.
