SPACE NORTH Theater Support Lead

Employer description

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 Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace’s strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities. 

The new hire will join the Space Planning, Readiness, and Operations (SPRO) Department team to provide operationally focused space solutions for warfighter and end user in support of our Department of War (DoW), Intelligence Community (IC), and civil customers.  We serve as the EED and ETG entry point for wargaming and exercises, space operations planning, and operationally-relevant solutions support to connect corporate technical capabilities and operational requirements, integrate capabilities across the space enterprise, and educate the workforce on space operations and warfighting.  Do you want to have a positive impact on the present and future space enterprise? Join us as an SPACENORTH Theater Support Lead on the Space Planning, Readiness, and Operations Department team at The Aerospace Corporation!  

Work Model 

100% Onsite: This is a full-time position based in Colorado Springs, CO at Peterson Space Force Base.      

What You’ll Be Doing 

Providing in-depth technical knowledge to integrate space effects in support of SPACENORTH and homeland defense operations. Providing domain expertise on integrated, multi-domain, system-of-systems capabilities in the USSF portfolio, with particular emphasis on missile warning, space domain awareness for North American approaches, and space-cyber integration supporting homeland defense. Identifying, developing, and recommending improvements to USSF component operational processes – Fostering Innovation by bringing fresh perspective to a newly established Component relationship. Advising SPACENORTH staff on tactical space operations and space capability employment. Supporting planning and execution of space play in theater/command/component exercises and wargames. Networking and collaborating across USSF, other services, government agencies, FFRDCs, UARCs, and SETA contractors – Engaging with Impact to build trust as the first Aerospace presence embedded with this Component. Evaluating future space system capabilities and end-state requirements to enhance the contribution of current and planned space systems to successful homeland defense operations. Assisting SPACENORTH staff in defining and articulating space capability needs to support warfighting plans and objectives. Identifying Aerospace resources and expertise that can be brought to bear on tough customer problems. Coordinating technical and analytical efforts across program/project lines, utilizing technical expertise from Aerospace’s Engineering and Technology Group (ETG). Leading Aerospace concept exploration and program definition studies for USSF capabilities and material solutions supporting USNORTHCOM space missions – Delivering Results by establishing a durable, high-value Aerospace footprint from day one. Advocating for USNORTHCOM space requirements to enable acceleration of technology and concepts that facilitate rapid prototype solutions. Fostering effective communication and collaboration among team members, leadership, customers, support contractors, and other internal and external stakeholders.  

What You Need to be Successful – Senior Project Engineer 

Minimum Requirements:  

Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution in engineering, mathematics, technical science, or related experience applicable to the position.  Minimum 12 years of progressive, relevant technical or operational experience in space systems, space operations, theater/joint military operations, systems integration, or combined experience in multiple areas. Functional awareness/working technical knowledge of USSF warfighting capabilities and operations. Experience with operations of space systems and/or command and control in a joint warfighting environment. Understanding of theater space interaction within JADC2, CSpOC, and NSDC, and how those organizations coordinate during competition, crisis, and conflict. Background in one or more of the following mission areas: missile warning/OPIR, Space domain awareness, or space-cyber integration. Strong verbal and written communication skills and familiarity with Department of War (DoW) acronyms and jargon. Proven ability to network, build, and work within diverse, multi-disciplinary teams. A current SSBI and possess (or be immediately eligible for) a Top Secret/SCI clearance and access, issued by the U.S. Government. Ability to travel domestically, with some international travel, as required.   

How You Can Stand Out  

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

Advanced degree from a recognized institution in engineering, mathematics, technical science, or related experience applicable to the position.  Active-Duty Military experience; U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, or U.S. Army (Air Defense/Missile Defense background) is preferable. Experience with/understanding of NORTHCOM component organizations, homeland defense mission, and capabilities. Experience in or with Joint Staff and/or U.S. Combatant Commander’s strategic and operational planning processes. Deep technical experience with missile warning/OPIR, space domain awareness, or space-cyber integration. Experience and understanding of the USSF approach to warfighting. Current applicable SAP/SAR accesses. Experience working large, complex issues and the ability to break down problems into meaningful steps to accomplish with a team. Knowledge of man-made threats to 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)

$151,300.00 - $226,900.00

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 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 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.