Senior Communication Systems Prototyping Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

401(k) plan

Flexible work options

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, CA is seeking an Engineering Specialist to lead small teams or work independently on RF satellite communication system projects, DSP, waveform design, and lab prototyping.

You will translate concepts into technical plans, communicate results in reports, and engage with customers to identify new opportunities; travel up to 20% domestic.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering, CS, math, or related technical field.
• Six+ years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility.
• Experience with RF satellite communication systems (hardware & software).
• Knowledge of modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection, waveform design, and link performance.
• Proficiency with lab test equipment and software-defined radios.
• Ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Lead small engineering teams or work independently on RF/satellite projects.
• Modeling, design, and performance analysis of communication waveforms.
• DSP algorithm development and system-level trade-off analysis.
• Prototype hardware testing in lab and field conditions.
• Translate concepts into practical technical plans and communicate results clearly.

Skills

MATLAB

Python

C/C++ programming

Digital signal processing

RF satellite communications

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or related technical discipline

Tools

Signal generators

Spectrum analyzers

Oscilloscopes

Network analyzers

Software-defined radios

Job description

Overview

The Aerospace Corporation is a federally funded research and development center that partners with the nation’s space programs to solve complex challenges and deliver innovative solutions across satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems.

What You’ll Be Doing

Lead small engineering teams or work independently on projects in the following areas:

• Physical layer modeling & simulation
• Communication waveform design and performance analysis of advanced coding and modulation techniques
• Digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm development
• Communication system architecture and trade‑off analysis
• Communication link performance analysis in the presence of noise, fading, and interference
• Evaluation of programs of record and future programs in satellite communications, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and electronic warfare (EW)
• Hardware prototyping and testing in the laboratory and in the field
• Translate vague concepts into practical, well‑defined technical plans
• Communicate technical results clearly in written reports and presentations
• Anticipate customer needs and identify opportunities for new business

Work full time on‑site at our facility in ElSegundo, CA. Travel: 10% domestic, up to 20% as required.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum qualifications for an Engineering Specialist:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics or a related technical discipline.
• Six or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility.
• Industry experience with RF satellite communication systems (hardware and software, systems engineering, RF system design, integration and test, system development).
• Knowledge of advanced communication systems and digital signal processing concepts such as modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel effects and link performance.
• Experience with laboratory test equipment (signal generators, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, network analyzers) and software‑defined radios.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++ programming.
• Ability to obtain a current and active TS/SCI security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Minimum qualifications for a Senior Engineering Specialist:

• Ten or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility.
• Proven technical leadership record.

How You Can Stand Out

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical, Computer, or a related engineering discipline.
• Knowledge of U.S. government programs in protected communications, navigation, SIGINT, or EW.
• Experience modeling and simulation of anti‑jam waveforms, spread spectrum, beamforming, array processing, interference mitigation, and geolocation techniques.
• Familiarity with machine learning theory, practices, and tools.
• Active TS/SCI clearance or SAP access.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation (salary range $129,000 – $249,600).
• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.
• Inclusive work environment.

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, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious or philosophical beliefs, national origin, disability, veterans' status, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you need assistance using our online job search and application tools or reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at [e-mail].