Exploration Mission Planning Office – Communication and Position, Navigation, and Timing Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Join an innovative team dedicated to advancing human spaceflight as a Communication and Position, Navigation, and Timing Engineer. This role involves architecting lunar systems and collaborating with NASA to define technical requirements for future missions. You will be part of a dynamic environment that values leadership and innovation, contributing to critical projects that shape the future of space exploration. If you are passionate about space and have the expertise to tackle complex challenges, this is the opportunity for you.

Benefits

Health Care

Paid Time Off

Flexible Work Schedules

401(k)

Relocation Assistance

Professional Development

Qualifications

• 3+ years of engineering experience in systems engineering.
• Experience in CPNT and space-based communications is essential.

Responsibilities

• Architect lunar C&PNT systems for operations.
• Collaborate with NASA mission designers and teams.
• Manage analyses and develop technical reports.

Skills

Systems Engineering

Communication Systems

Positioning Navigation Timing (PNT)

GNSS

Leadership

Technical Reporting

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Advanced Degree in Science

Job description

Exploration Mission Planning Office – Communication and Position, Navigation, and Timing Engineer

Exploration Mission Planning Office – Communication and Position, Navigation, and Timing Engineer

Apply locations: Houston, TX; Johnson Space Center, TX
Time type: Full time
Posted on: Posted 2 Days Ago
Job requisition id: R013216

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.

Job Summary

Building on The Aerospace Corporation's reputation as a trusted, impartial advisor with integrity and dedication to mission success, the Civil Systems Group (CSG) combines deep technical expertise with market-leading innovation to help our customers solve complex systems engineering and integration challenges. CSG manages and grows programs within NASA, NOAA, and the NNSA, extending capabilities to other civilian federal agencies, all within Aerospace's regulatory framework.

This position supports the Exploration Mission Planning Office (EMPO) with Communications, Position, Navigation, and Timing (C&PNT) engineering expertise. EMPO provides agency leadership for developing, analyzing, integrating, and implementing human spaceflight architectures, mission plans, and spacecraft/surface system definitions. As the EMPO C&PNT Engineer (Senior Member of Technical Staff/Project Engineer - Guidance, Navigation, and Control Engineering), you will coordinate with the Artemis lunar architecture team to address CPNT matters for surface operations and to enable future lunar PNT infrastructure for NASA.

Work Model

This is a full-time position based in Houston, TX at Johnson Space Center, offering a hybrid work model with 3-4 onsite days and remote flexibility as needed.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Architect and develop lunar C&PNT systems for surface and orbital operations
• Define technical requirements and interfaces for lunar PNT infrastructure, including GNSS alternatives and surface relays
• Conduct trade studies on communication constellations, timing synchronization, and interoperability
• Perform technology assessments, readiness evaluations, and industry/international reviews
• Collaborate with NASA mission designers, robotics teams, and communications experts
• Review contractor deliverables and ensure compliance with NASA requirements
• Contribute to lunar PNT standards development and documentation
• Participate in technical, safety, and integration working groups
• Manage analyses, studies, and tests of components and systems
• Develop reports to support internal teams and external partners
• Lead technical meetings, hardware reviews, and design milestones
• Prepare reports and presentations for program offices and NASA leadership
• Represent in technical reviews, conferences, and workshops

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for Senior Member of Technical Staff - Guidance, Navigation, and Control Engineering:

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in engineering, science, or related field
• 3+ years of responsible professional engineering/scientific experience, including systems engineering
• Experience in CPNT, GNSS, or space-based communications
• Familiarity with navigation in GPS-denied environments, deep space communications, and timing systems
• Understanding of NASA program lifecycle and milestone reviews
• Effective communication skills for technical and managerial audiences
• Proven ability to work with internal and external stakeholders
• Strong leadership and multi-tasking skills
• Ability to develop and deliver technical reports and presentations
• Experience working across multidisciplinary teams
• U.S. citizenship required for security clearance eligibility

Additional minimum requirements for Project Engineer - Guidance, Navigation, and Control Engineering include:

• 6+ years of experience in engineering/scientific roles, including program management
• Successful leadership or execution of NASA mission tasks

How You Can Stand Out

Preferred qualifications include experience with lunar mission design, deep space networks, human exploration systems, NASA standards, RF design, mission planning, and international collaboration.

Leadership Competencies

We value leadership at all levels, including operating strategically, leading change, engaging impactfully, fostering innovation, and delivering results.

Employee Rewards

Our benefits include health care, paid time off, flexible work schedules, 401(k), relocation assistance, professional development, and a respectful work environment.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without discrimination. For accommodations, contact us at 310.336.5432 or [e-mail]. Learn more about workplace rights and discrimination policies.