Space Surveillance System Analyst

1 week ago


Chantilly, Virginia, United States The Aerospace Corporation Full time

About The Aerospace Corporation

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

Electronics and Sensors Division Overview

The Electronics and Sensors Division (ESD) stands as a premier engineering and scientific authority in electronics and remote sensing technologies. Our team comprises experts across diverse fields such as radio frequency, infrared, visible and spectral sensors, sensor exploitation techniques, and both analog and digital electronics. With access to advanced laboratories and modeling capabilities, ESD is equipped to offer cutting-edge solutions to national space systems and civil clientele.

Role within the Sensor Modeling and Simulation Department

The Sensor Modeling and Simulation Department (SMSD) operates within ESD, comprising scientists and engineers dedicated to developing next-generation remote sensing systems critical to national interests. SMSD is involved in all phases of advanced remote sensing system development, including:

  • Designing and evaluating the performance of optical and electro-optical focal plane arrays.
  • Modeling comprehensive sensing systems.
  • Creating innovative data processing and computer vision algorithms.
  • Generating simulated data products for novel applications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Refine and develop physical models for space domain awareness (SDA) systems across optical and infrared wavelengths.
  • Create physics-based modeling software to evaluate system performance against various criteria.
  • Formulate techniques for establishing system performance requirements and provide guidance to government clients on best practices.
  • Design and implement experiments or collection campaigns to validate SDA system efficacy.
  • Assess the performance implications of different sensor configurations and operational strategies.
  • Collaborate with small teams of engineers and scientists to develop comprehensive system and performance modeling tools.
  • Present findings to government and other stakeholders to support the definition and verification of system requirements.

Qualifications for Success

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline such as Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Eight years of post-bachelor's experience in remote sensing system modeling, simulation, design, data processing, calibration, and applications.
  • Strong leadership capabilities and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
  • Proficient scientific programming skills, particularly in C++ and Python, along with familiarity with version control systems.
  • Exceptional analytical and creative problem-solving abilities.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience in technical briefings.
  • Experience in modeling or evaluating remote sensing systems.
  • Willingness to travel approximately 10% of the time.
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance, requiring U.S. citizenship.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree in a relevant STEM field.
  • Twelve years of experience in remote sensing system modeling and related areas.
  • Experience in modeling and simulation of sensor performance in SDA systems.
  • Familiarity with image reduction pipelines.
  • Experience with agile software development methodologies.
  • Proficiency in FORTRAN.
  • Experience in evaluating sensor hardware performance.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience and mentorship of junior staff.
  • Current Top Secret/SCI security clearance.

Leadership Competencies

At Aerospace, we believe every employee can demonstrate leadership. We seek individuals who:

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

Employee Benefits

During the interview process, details of our comprehensive benefits package will be provided. Highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness programs.
  • Paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation time.
  • Flexible work schedules, including telework options.
  • 401(k) Plan with company-paid benefits based on service duration.
  • Education assistance and professional development programs.
  • An inclusive work environment that values teamwork and respect.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, committed to fostering a diverse workforce that values unique ideas and perspectives.



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