Safety Systems Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation stands as a premier partner to the nation's space initiatives, tackling complex challenges and delivering unparalleled technical proficiency. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we engage comprehensively across all facets of space—offering innovative solutions that encompass satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial clients.

At Aerospace, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees can contribute to a mission greater than themselves.

The Western Range Directorate acts as the technical consultant to various clients and programs operating at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), including the Space Force, Air Force, Missile Defense Agency, National Reconnaissance Office, and National Aeronautics and Space Administration, by providing essential engineering evaluations and guidance for their missions.

The Systems Engineering & Mission Integration team influences numerous clients and programs at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB). The Range Safety/System Safety Engineer will deliver impartial system safety engineering expertise to the Sentinel program, reviewing and offering technical evaluations from design through flight testing at VSFB. You will be part of a dynamic team and gain exposure to multiple clients and programs as a member of the Systems Engineering & Mission Integration Team.

Work Model: On-site work location, with the possibility of telecommuting one day per week based on client needs and schedules.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide system safety expertise, guidance, and recommendations to the Sentinel program regarding contractor AFSCMAN 91-710, RCC 319, and RCC 324 deliverables from weapon design through flight testing.
• Observe, analyze, and evaluate the Sentinel weapons systems trailblazers, flight tests, and flight test worthiness activities, as well as flight test data results.
• Support and offer systems engineering guidance during Sentinel design reviews and technical interchange meetings.
• Responsible for executing system engineering and launch verification activities at VSFB in support of National Security Space Launch (NSSL) programs for the Space Systems Command (SSC).
• Conduct technical evaluations of launch vehicle ground infrastructure systems upgrades, operations, and maintenance activities.
• Participate in and provide objective readiness assessments of launch vehicle ground systems to support launch vehicle testing and launch day activities.

Position Levels: This role is available as a Level 2 Project Engineer or a Level 3 Senior Project Engineer.

Qualifications for Success

Minimum Requirements:

• A Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or systems engineering or a related technical field.
• Eight or more years of relevant experience.
• Understanding of systems engineering principles, concepts, and practices.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with a diverse range of clients, colleagues, contractors, and senior government leadership.
• Proficient in conveying system safety concepts, concerns, issues, and solutions effectively (both written and oral) to government and contractor personnel at technical and management levels.
• Ability to identify hazardous/emergency conditions in the workplace and safely exit from hazardous or elevated work environments.
• Willingness to travel domestically approximately 30 percent.
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a current and active TS/SSBI and secure a Special Access Program security clearance, issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required for these security clearances.

Additional Requirements for Senior Project Engineer:

• A minimum of 12 years of engineering-related experience.
• Strong understanding and experience in developing technical performance assessments of missile weapon and/or launch vehicle system mechanical ground support equipment (MGSE) and/or electrical ground support equipment (EGSE) system designs, test activation procedures, and operational readiness.
• Experience in launch vehicle processing at a launch site, including checkout, equipment development, design, integration, and test verification.
• Demonstrated application of systems engineering principles, concepts, and practices.
• Able to effectively utilize corporate resources to meet requirements.
• Familiarity with national security space systems.
• Strong systems engineering and analytical skills to identify problems, develop solutions, and assess risks.
• Relevant experience in composing technical reports, presenting analyses, and delivering recommendations to senior-level management.

Preferred Qualifications

It would be advantageous if you possess one or more of the following:

• An advanced degree in electrical, mechanical, aerospace, or systems engineering or a related technical field from an accredited institution.
• Expertise in tailoring and compliance with AFSPCMAN 91-710, Range Commanders Council Standards (RCC 319 and RCC 324), and related specifications/standards.
• Familiarity with Missile Defense Agency (MDA).
• Experience in the design, construction, and testing of missile weapon systems.
• Mechanical/electrical equipment development, design, integration, and test verification experience.
• Understanding of VSFB's ground infrastructure and/or power grid.
• Experience in transforming system safety analysis, design, and testing into relevant policy and/or guidance to influence future systems.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you will be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our organization. The grade-based pay range for this position is competitive and determined through various factors, including education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy emphasizes that every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is to our people. We seek individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Employee Rewards

During the interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary 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 with a total company-paid benefit 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 advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We celebrate our uniqueness, coming from diverse backgrounds and experiences, united by the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to perform our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce fosters an environment where unique ideas flourish and differing perspectives are valued, leading to superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.