Software 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.
The Aerospace Space Domain Superiority Directorate, in the Special Programs Division, supports a broad array of Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power missions covering the entire threat response chain from the Space Domain Awareness function through the multidomain effects needed for space superiority. These programs include major system acquisitions for multiple ground and space segments, future architecture definition at the data/software/hardware levels, and research and technology for continuous evolution of space warfighting capabilities.
We are looking for a Software System Engineer to contribute to a team that is developing and delivering a critical space control capability to guarantee space superiority for our nation. This work is focused on supporting all aspects of implementing programs within the tightly integrated program office consisting of military, Aerospace, and SETA personnel. You will work on site in the government program office, where you will have frequent interaction with the government and support contractors. This opportunity will also collaborate with National Security Space mission partners that are building and integrating capabilities. This position allows for the opportunity to see your contributions to a critical mission become realized in the near future.
Work Model
This position requires 100% on site work in Chantilly, VA., or El Segundo, CA.
What You'll Be Doing

• Oversee the delivery of highly scalable, fault-tolerant, and secure systems
• Define and enforce software standards, ensuring that solutions meet performance, security, and scalability requirements
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and external vendors to develop technical roadmaps and timelines
• Lead technical reviews and design discussions with multiple vendors to ensure system integration aligns with overall project objectives
• Establish and implement middleware and modular design frameworks (e.g., AUTOSAR, DDS, ROS) to support a modular software ecosystem
• Develop and maintain documentation for all systems and components
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and certifications relevant to the space domain (e.g., ECSS, CCSDS)
• Provide mentorship and guidance to development teams and vendors to ensure software best practices are followed
• Collaborate on system testing, validation, and verification with teams to ensure a smooth performance of systems
• Act as a point of escalation for complex technical challenges, working closely with vendors to troubleshoot and resolve issues

What You Need To Be Successful - Project Engineer - Systems Software Engineering and Cloud Computing Architecture
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related STEM field
• 8+ years of experience in software, system design, and systems integration
• Proven experience working with vendors to deliver large-scale, multi-component systems
• Strong knowledge of cloud-native architectures and containerization technologies (e.g., Kubernetes, Docker)
• Experience with distributed systems, microservices, and event-driven architectures
• Hands-on experience with DevOps practices, including CI/CD, automated testing, and infrastructure as code
• Excellent communication skills, with a strong ability to collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams and vendors
• Strong leadership and project management skills to drive cross-team alignment and vendor delivery
• This position requires a TS/SCI, which is issued by the US government. US citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of the following:

• Advanced Technical Degree

• Experience in the space or aerospace industry
• Expertise in modular software design and middleware frameworks (e.g., AUTOSAR, DDS, ROS, or similar)
• Familiarity with space-related standards, such as ECSS or CCSDS
• Knowledge of high-performance computing, real-time systems, and security for mission-critical applications (Risk Management Framework)
• Familiarity with AI/ML technologies and their applications in space systems

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 - $193,500
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 - 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 help advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various 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 employer. 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 peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.