Senior Communications Systems 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 Communication Systems Engineering Department (CSED) performs analysis, modeling and simulation, and laboratory activities to design and evaluate communication systems, signals, and signal processing algorithms for our customers.  As a Communications Systems Engineer (Engineering Specialist - Communication Systems Engineering) within CSED, you will be solving challenging technical problems in the areas of communication, counter-communication, and related digital signal processing. Your technical expertise will help support various US Government military and national program needs as well as shape their futures!  The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site in El Segundo, CA. What You’ll Be Doing    Independently execute and/or lead projects involving:  Physical layer modeling & simulation Communication waveform design and performance analysis Position, navigation, and timing signals design and analysis Communication link budget analysis Evaluation of programs of record and future programs in various technical areas including satellite communications, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and electronic warfare (EW) Development and evaluation of program requirements, interfaces, and verification processes Digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm development Provide implementable technical solutions to the Nation’s Hardest Problems Translate vague concepts into practical, well-defined, and methodical technical plans Communicate technical results clearly in written reports and presentations What You Need to be Successful   Minimum Requirements:   Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics or related applicable technical discipline Six or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility Experience with RF satellite communication systems (hardware and software, systems engineering, RF system design requirements development, integration and test, system development, or related field) Understanding of several communication systems and digital signal processing concepts (e.g., modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel effects, and link performance) Fluency in MATLAB, Python, or C/C++. Ability to obtain and maintain a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government (U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance) Ability to travel 10% domestically. Increased travel (up to 20%) may be required to support certain customer needs How You Can Stand Out   It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: M.S. or Ph.D. in either Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipline Eight or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility Experience with military and commercial satellite communication systems Working knowledge of US government programs in the areas of protected communications, navigation, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and/or electronic warfare (EW) Hands-on experience with modeling and simulation of anti-jam waveforms, spread spectrum, beamforming, array processing, interference mitigation, and geolocation techniques Knowledge of modern software-development practices and tools In-depth understanding of emerging communication and network technologies (5G, 6G, IoT, IoST) Knowledge of machine learning theory, practices, and tools Active TS/SCI clearance or SAP access 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 - $193,500.00 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: Comprehensive health care and wellness plans Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options 401(k) Plan — Employee