Aerospace Structural Project Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation stands as a pivotal ally to the nation's space initiatives, tackling complex challenges and offering unparalleled technical knowledge. As the steward of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we engage comprehensively across all dimensions of space—providing inventive solutions that encompass satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial sectors. Joining our team means becoming part of a distinguished group of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Embrace your role in advancing space exploration.

At Aerospace, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where all employees can unite in our shared mission—serving a purpose greater than ourselves.

The Defense Systems Group (DSG) offers analysis-driven decision support to senior officials on space architectures, policy, strategy, development planning, systems engineering, and threat mitigation, shaping the future of national security space (NSS) missions. DSG is distinctive at Aerospace as it not only directly assists major clients, including the US Space Force and U.S. Space Command, but also delivers a wide array of services across the national space landscape, maintaining both vertical and horizontal responsibilities within the organization. DSG further supports the Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) in the conception, design, acquisition, launch, and operation of satellite, launch vehicle, ground control, and range systems.

The Launch Systems, Operations, and Development (LSOD) team within the Launch Systems Division is in search of a highly qualified individual with proven leadership and exceptional communication skills to oversee the ongoing configuration assessment of the Falcon Launch System and manage New Glenn certification activities. This role entails coordinating and sustaining support for the evaluation of the Falcon launch vehicle's design, operational capabilities, and mission assurance to ensure compliance with government evaluation standards for design validation and verification. Responsibilities will also encompass independent verification and validation support for New Glenn certification, presenting an excellent opportunity to develop innovative verification methodologies and tools to enhance assessment and tracking efficiency.

Work Model

This is a full-time role that offers a flexible work model, allowing for a blend of regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as business needs dictate.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate Structural Loads and Dynamics environment analyses
• Act as the technical focal point for Launch Vehicle Loads in interactions with contractors and clients
• Collaborate closely with the Falcon and New Glenn Chief Engineers and the Assured Access to Space Directorate to uphold the technical baseline
• Oversee and maintain support for the evaluation of the Falcon Launch System's design, operational capabilities, and mission assurance
• Ensure the Falcon Launch System meets government evaluation standards for design validation, verification, and reuse extension
• Verify compliance of Falcon Launch System interface and vehicle requirements with EELV program top-level requirements
• Manage technical assessments of New Glenn environments for NSSL certification
• Support configuration control efforts to uphold vehicle baseline acceptance

Qualifications for Success – Project Engineer – Aeronautical and Aerospace Structural Engineering

Minimum Requirements:

• B.S. in Engineering or Physical Science from an accredited institution
• 8 or more years of progressively responsible professional engineering/scientific experience, including experience in systems engineering and/or program management
• Experience collaborating with various engineering disciplines
• Proven ability to work effectively with numerous internal and external organizations
• This position requires a secret security clearance, issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is necessary to obtain a security clearance.

Additionally, the minimum requirements for Senior Project Engineer – Aeronautical and Aerospace Structural Engineering include:

• B.S. in Engineering or Physical Science from an accredited institution
• 12 or more years of progressively responsible professional engineering/scientific experience, including experience in systems engineering and/or program management
• Experience with dynamic testing and assessment of complex structures and components

Preferred Qualifications

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

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• In-depth knowledge of Structural Dynamics and/or Dynamic Environments methodologies and tools
• Familiarity with Standard Interface Specification requirements and System Performance Requirements Document, as well as SMC standards related to launch vehicle and spacecraft environments
• Working knowledge of the mission assurance process and the ability to technically coordinate across multiple disciplines

We provide a competitive compensation package where you will be recognized based on your performance and the value you contribute to our organization. The grade-based pay range for this position is outlined below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through various factors, including education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

(Min - Max)

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is straightforward: every employee, regardless of their level or role, can exhibit leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is to our people. To nurture our talent and ensure a robust pipeline of future leaders, we seek individuals who:

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

Employee Rewards

During the interview process, our team will share details about 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 leave, and vacation
• Standard and alternative 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 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, yet we are united by a shared belief in making a difference. This core belief empowers us to perform at our best 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 (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.