Lead Laser Communications Engineer – Space Systems

aero; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 129,000 - 249,600; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care and wellness plans

401(k) Plan

Relocation assistance

Education assistance programs

Telework options

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, CA, seeks a Laser Communications Engineer (Engineering Specialist) to lead lasercom validation, develop innovative solutions, and guide ground/space systems architectures. On-site role with occasional travel, requiring TS/SCI eligibility and U.S. citizenship.

The department emphasizes technical leadership in optical communications, laser transmitters/detectors, testing activities, and program-wide support across DoD and civil customers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences, or related field.
• Eight+ years in optical communications, satellites, and/or space systems.
• Experience with laser transmitters and detectors.
• Proven ability to lead lasercom trade studies.
• Ability to obtain/maintain security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead lasercom system validation and verification activities, including testing, modeling & simulation.
• Develop and demonstrate innovative laser communication solutions.
• Evaluate architectures through testing and analysis of gimbal, telescope, optical head, adaptive optics, and modem.
• Conduct lasercom studies and report findings to customers.
• Provide technical advice across space systems lifecycles.

Skills

Laser transmitters

Optical detectors

Lasercom trade studies

Pointing error budgets

Photonic testing

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelors in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, CA, seeks a Laser Communications Engineer (Engineering Specialist) to lead lasercom validation, develop innovative solutions, and guide ground/space systems architectures. On-site role with occasional travel, requiring TS/SCI eligibility and U.S. citizenship.

The department emphasizes technical leadership in optical communications, laser transmitters/detectors, testing activities, and program-wide support across DoD and civil customers.