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 Defense Systems Group (DSG) provides analysis-based decision support to senior leaders on space architectures, policy and strategy, technology development, warfighter capability enablers, systems integration, defense industrial base, and threat reduction to help shape existing and future space missions across the national security space (NSS) enterprise. Additionally, DSG provides deep technical expertise to the Space Force Space Systems Command (SSC) in the conception, design, acquisition, launch and operations of satellite, launch vehicle, ground control, and range systems.  

Space and cyberspace are increasingly interdependent, and with the accelerating move to software-based systems and use of emerging technologies (e.g. AI) the ability to architect systems-of-systems to operate with high reliability and security is of paramount importance. The Cyber Architectures & Integration organization is focused on supporting the US Space Force and partners identify and acquire resilient and secure space systems-of-systems. Core efforts include the integration and roadmapping of future cryptography to protect missions and systems now and into the future, and applying systems engineering and architecture principles to define cybersecurity capabilities and solutions that enable system-level design and assessment.

The Enterprise Cryptographic Integration Project Leader (Project Engineer/Senior Project Engineer - Cyber Security Architecture and Information Systems Security) will identify and lead the execution of projects aimed at supporting the establishment of secure communications within and between DoD space systems, including the incorporation of commercial or commercially-hosted systems. While DoD has relied primarily on high assurance cryptography for this protection, projects will include the appropriate application of high assurance systems and use of alternate protections for data-in-transit to satisfy overall security objectives. A core requirement of this position will be to identify flexible options that provide a range of risk levels while remaining aligned with national policy.    

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at Aerospace in El Segundo, CA or Lackland Air Force Base, TX.  

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Conducting analysis of system requirements and threats to identify options for providing protection for critical data and communications
• Coordinate across customer and corporate technical resources to provide products and advice to support the development of future cryptographic solutions  
• Coordinating implementation of cryptographic, cryptographic key management, and related cybersecurity requirements for space programs
• Provide analysis of design trade space and provide inputs on specific design elements, in relation to environmental, trust, and cyber-security issues
• Coordinating the results of analysis or resolution of issues across the Space Force, HQ CCC, CCSD, NSA, and other Department of Defense components and agencies
• Developing security risk assessments and completing other systems engineering and cybersecurity tasks as assigned

What You Need to Be Successful

Minimum Requirements for the Project Engineer – Cyber Security Architecture and Information Systems Security

• Bachelor of Science or higher degree from a technical program in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science or other applicable technical degree
• Eight years of relevant professional experience in scientific or engineering positions
• Experience with assessments or systems engineering / architecting of cybersecurity solutions, network security, or cryptographic products
• Familiarity with space cryptographic solutions and process for their operations, acquisitions or certification.
• Experience with systems engineering subject areas, including requirements engineering, verification, test, and/or risk management
• Willing to travel periodically, as needed
• Current TS/SCI security clearance with the ability to obtain additional clearances, which are issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to acquire a security clearance

In addition to the above, the Senior Project Engineer – Cyber Security Architecture and Information Systems Security requires the following

• Twelve years of relevant professional experience in scientific or engineering positions
• Direct experience with space cryptographic solutions in support of acquisition and design, certification and fielding.
• Knowledge and familiarity with the process and organizations involved in space cryptographic solutions acquisitions, design and certification.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Advanced degree or certificate in information systems security or equivalent program
• Experience with space acquisition policies, processes, and/or budgeting
• Experience with various space systems and missions and cloud architectures
• Direct support or leadership in cryptographic certification efforts
• Digital engineering, MBSE, or architecture processes and tools experience

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)

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 [email protected] . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.