Senior RF/Satellite Communications & Architectures 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 Architectures Department (CAD) has three main lines of work: the department performs trade studies, analyses, and simulations to   optimize   the overall communications performance of terrestrial, satellite, launch vehicle, and ground-based systems. CAD also guides the development of spectrum regulations and policies to assure critical wireless systems have access to necessary spectrum resources. Finally, we are actively engaged in the development of RF communications   prototypes,    especially   those involving commercial LEO and MEO satellite systems as well as hybrid commercial and US Government (USG) systems.   ​   The role of the  Engineer ing   Specialist  - Communications Systems Engineering :   designs, develops, models, simulates, tests, and analyzes communications systems, subsystems, and electronic signals for communication networks, data links, digital radio, battle management, and command and control systems. Examples include wide and local area networks, point-to-point systems, and secure systems. They apply knowledge of communications systems, modulation schema, signal coding, digital and wireless radio/communications technology, network architecture design, and related concepts, methods, techniques and tools, and document work and results.   The role of the   Senior Member of Technical Staff   – Communications Systems Engineering:   supports the design, development, modeling, simulation, testing, and analysis of communications systems, subsystems, and electronic signals for communication networks, data links, digital radio, battle management, and command and control systems. Examples include wide and local area networks, point-to-point systems, and secure systems. They apply knowledge of communications systems, modulation schema, signal coding, digital and wireless radio/communications technology, network architecture design, and related concepts, methods,   techniques   and tools. Senior MTS personnel work collaboratively on technical projects and document work and results.   ​ ​ The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility   at ​ ​   El Segundo, CA. ​   ​ ​ What You’ll Be Doing ​   ​ ​ Performing technical analyses of terrestrial and space-based communication systems, including latest-generation cellular and commercial   pLEO   ​ Developing working prototypes   leveraging   these systems and novel hardware to   demonstrate   capability improvements   ​ Assess the performance of satellite and ground systems, communication links, and wireless network protocols   ​ Document work products in briefings and/or technical reports to customers and colleagues   ​ Opportunities to propose and carry out internal R&D projects, engage in field work, and publish in conferences and journals   ​ ​   ​ ​ What You Need to be Successful –   ​ ​ Senior Member of Technical Staff ​   ​ ​ Minimum Requirements: ​     ​ ​ Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering , Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field    ​ A minimum of 4 years' practical experience in a relevant STEM field, including graduate studies    ​ Proficiency  in programming languages such as Python and C++ (or similar)    ​ Hands-on experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Bitbucket)    ​ Strong understanding of wireless communications principles and signal processing techniques    ​ Demonstrated experience contributing to or leading elements of engineering projects in a professional setting, with ability to collaborate across teams and deliver technical solutions    ​ Ability to obtain and  maintain  a security clearance as  required , which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is  required  to obtain a security clearance  ​   ​ ​ In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for   ​ ​ Engineering Specialist ​ ​ : ​   ​ ​ A minimum of 7 years' practical experience working in a relevant STEM field    ​ Proven  track record  leading engineering teams or projects in a professional setting, with  demonstrated  success driving cross-functional initiatives, managing project timelines, mentoring junior staff, and delivering effective technical solutions    ​   ​ ​ How You Can Stand Out   ​   It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: ​   Experience with frequency  selection  and spectrum management    Background in commercial satellite communications (commercial SATCOM) systems    Experience with network traffic modeling and analysis    Demonstrated  track record  in tested AI/ML applications, particularly as applied to RF and network data    Active Secret or TS/SCI clear