Spacecraft Security Engineering Manager

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.
Information Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD) staff couple the latest in information system technologies, such as elastic compute clouds, containerization, microservices, real-time operating systems, and visualization frameworks, with expertise in cyber security, software architecture, software engineering, data science, Artificial Intelligence, process improvement, and software development to deliver responsive, resilient, high-performance software intensive systems to our Intelligence Community, Department of Defense, and civilian customers.
The Embedded and Specialized Computing Department (ESCD) is seeking an Engineering Section Manager to lead a team in the research and implementation of innovative hardware and software prototypes with a primary focus on spacecraft security. These prototypes and resulting lessons learned are crucial for securing the next generation of satellites. Members of this group provide design and implementation support to a wide range of customers including the Space Force's Space Systems Command (SSC), the Space Development Agency, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and other civil customers (e.g. NASA).
While previous management experience is helpful, this role also provides an opportunity for technical contributors to explore leadership experience. This role is approximately 75% individual contributor and 25% team leadership.
Work Model
This is a full-time position based in either our El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VA office, offering a hybrid work model that combines 4 regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow.
What You'll Be Doing

• This is a dual management and engineering role: Lead project teams and directly contribute to technical design and research efforts while ensuring your team's success.

• Work with Department Director to develop and execute the section's technical strategy and guide the department's research and development portfolio.

• Recruit, mentor, and lead hardware and software developers to create novel prototypes for embedded computing applications.

• Collaborate with other departments in the subdivision to develop new technical demonstrations and capabilities.

• Collaborate with outside organizations to provide technical support and outreach of ESCD technical capabilities.

• Lead research & directly contribute to department's prototyping efforts.

What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's in STEM electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or another related discipline.

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience directly related to embedded hardware and software development with specific knowledge of embedded security.

• Demonstrated ability to interact with internal and external customers regarding project status, technical accomplishments, and proposals.

• Deep understanding in several of the following technical disciplines: embedded systems, PCB development, FPGA design, software development, or embedded security.

• Previous experience with key embedded security tenants such as Root of Trust, Secure Boot, encryption and key management, and common attack vectors.

• Demonstrated expertise in building and sustaining interpersonal and professional relationships with corporate staff, peers, management, customers, and contractors.

• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively in a cross-functional matrix organization.

• Willing to travel domestically up to 10% if required,

• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

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

• Advanced degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or another related discipline.

• Experience with cybersecurity defense in depth and zero trust implementations.

• Previous management or leadership experience with highly technical staff.

• Experience leading or managing geographically dispersed teams.

• Experience with artificial intelligence / machine learning algorithms and hardware platforms, especially for edge computing.

• Software / hardware development experience and leadership using agile methodologies and tools like git, Jira, and Confluence

• Previous experience with defense systems, especially satellite systems.

• Active Top-Secret Clearance.

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)
$147,000 - $221,400
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 - 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, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.