Senior Communications and Signal Processing

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 Communications and Signal Analysis Department (CSAD) within MPD performs analysis, modeling and simulation of end-to-end communications and signal collection/processing systems. The work we do supports advanced concept development/prototyping and system acquisition, performance analysis and anomaly resolution for specialized satellite and ground processing applications.
The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at Chantilly, VA.
What You’ll Be Doing
Supporting the research, development and acquisition of advanced communications and signal collection / processing systems
Performing analysis, modeling and simulation of advanced communications and signal collection / processing systems
Supporting our Civil, DoD and intelligence community customers with primary support to the National Reconnaissance Office
Initiating studies, coordinating tasking, forming and leading teams; interfacing with multiple stakeholders
Acting as the organizations designated representative at technical meetings, presentations and symposia
What You Need to be Successful – Engineering Specialist
Minimum Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline
Eight (8) years of experience in communications and signal processing, such as modeling and simulation; some knowledge of hardware, hardware imperfections and modeling required
Willing to travel domestically up to approximately 10% of the time
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required.
In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Senior Engineering Specialist:
In addition to the requirements above, a total of twelve years of experience in communications and signal processing
Demonstrated strong analytical and team leadership skills
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical discipline
Experience with our customers and knowledge of National Technical Means
Experience in Satellite Communications and SIGINT
Demonstrated strong analytical and team leadership skills
Experience using MATLAB, Python, C++ or additional tools, for modeling and simulation
Active TS/SCI
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 - $249,600.00
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 — 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.