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 Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration - to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

　　Main mission communication satellites, wideband links, command and telemetry, and terrestrial networks, along with their enabling technologies, are the domain of the Communication Technologies and Engineering Division (CTED) at the Aerospace Corporation. This division comprises all aspects, from architectures to implementation; our engineers work directly with customers to ensure robust and resilient communications.

　　We are looking for a Laser Communications Engineer who will provide leadership to our technical staff under The Optical Communications Department (OCD). This office applies lasercom technologies and concepts to unique challenges in the space domain. The selected individual will play a critical part in guiding the development of spectrum regulations and policies to assure critical wireless systems have access to necessary spectrum resources.

　　Take a tour of some our labs and capabilities in lasercom: https://gallery.aerospace.org/wp-content/uploads/tours/OpticalComm/

　　Work Model: This role has some flexibility to support a hybrid work model; however, the majority of the work will be on-site.

　　This position can be filled as a Senior Member of Technical Staff or an Engineering Specialist.

　　What You'll Be Doing Conducting specialized satellite lasercom studies and reporting findingsCoordinating specific technical assignments for lasercom applications or organizationsProvides technical advice to management, customers, and associate contractorsDevelopment of advanced analytical techniques, concepts, and/or design criteria for subsystemsProviding ongoing technical consultation and advice to management, customers, and contractors in satellite optical communicationsTaking initiative to inform management of perceived technical problems and recommending courses of actionSupporting multiple programs and/or activities and may lead intra-departmental teams and activitiesParticipating in lasercom system validation and verification activities which may include modeling & simulation and testingWhat You Need to be Successful

　　Minimum Requirements for a Senior Member of Technical Staff:Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences, or another related technical fieldFive or more years of experience in optical communications, satellites, and/or space systems engineeringExperience with laser transmitters and technologiesExperience with optical detectors and technologiesExperience in supporting lasercom trade studiesFamiliarity with communications link and pointing error budgetsProven ability to manage or support photonic or optical testing activities that characterize system, subsystem, unit and component performanceThis position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required.Minimum Requirements for an Engineering Specialist:In additional to the above requirements, a total of 8 years experienceExperience in implementing or overseeing software development to aid in lasercom system architecture definition, requirements validation and verification, or performance modelingExperience presenting results, concepts and technical content internal customers, external customers and stakeholders possessing diverse technical backgroundsWilling to travel domestically approximately 10% of the timeHow You Can Stand Out

　　It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:Master's or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences, or another related technical fieldExperience in systems engineering applied to satellite communications or optical systemsExperience in satellite communication systemsExperience developing laser or electro-optical pointing, acquisition and tracking requirementsExperience developing laser system end-to-end requirements and designs inclusive of transmitter, optical elements and receiverExperience with optical communications and space hardware testing including development of testbeds, ground support test equipment, test programs and management of test program execution for lasercom, component, units, subsystems or systemsCurrent TS/SCI with CI PolyWe 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 - Mid - Max)

　　$71,000 - $132,000 - $193,000

　　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 StrategicallyLead 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 plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(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 hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do 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 creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at [email protected]. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.