Senior Communications Systems Engineer - Senior Engineering Specialist

aero; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 166,400 - 249,600; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

401(k) plan with company-paid contributions

Education assistance programs

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo, CA is seeking a skilled Communication Systems Engineer to join their team. The engineer will engage in modeling, simulation, and design analysis related to communication systems within government projects. A background in RF satellite communications and digital signal processing is essential for success.

This role requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and significant engineering experience, including the ability to lead complex projects. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits are provided.

Qualifications

• Ten or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility.
• Ability to obtain current and active TS/SCI security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Independently execute and lead projects involving physical layer modeling and simulation.
• Design and analyse communication waveforms and position/navigation/timing signals.

Skills

RF satellite communication systems

Digital signal processing

Fluency in MATLAB

Technical leadership

Education

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

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C/C++

Job 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.

At the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

The Communication Systems Engineering Department (CSED) performs analysis, modeling and simulation, and laboratory activities to design and evaluate communication systems, signals, and signal processing algorithms for our customers. As an engineer within CSED, you will be solving challenging technical problems in the areas of communication, counter‑communication, and related digital signal processing. Your technical expertise will help support various U.S. Government military and national program needs as well as shape their futures.

The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at the Aerospace El Segundo, CA facility.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Independently execute and/or lead projects involving physical layer modeling & simulation.
• Communication waveform design and performance analysis.
• Position, navigation, and timing signals design and analysis.
• Communication link budget analysis.
• Evaluation of programs of record and future programs in various technical areas including satellite communications, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and electronic warfare (EW).
• Development and evaluation of program requirements, interfaces, and verification processes.
• Digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm development.
• Provide implementable technical solutions to the Nation’s hardest problems.
• Translate vague concepts into practical, well‑defined, and methodical technical plans.
• Communicate technical results clearly in written reports and presentations.

What You Need to be Successful

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related applicable technical discipline.
• Ten or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility.
• Experience with RF satellite communication systems (hardware and software, systems engineering, RF system design requirements development, integration and test, system development, or related field).
• Understanding of several communication systems and digital signal processing concepts (e.g., modulation, coding, synchronization, estimation, detection theory, waveform design, channel effects, and link performance).
• Fluency in MATLAB, Python, or C/C++.
• Ability to obtain a current and active TS/SCI security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.
• Demonstrated technical leadership roles.

How You Can Stand Out

• M.S. or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related discipline from an accredited university.
• Twelve or more years of relevant engineering experience with increasing responsibility.
• Experience with military and commercial satellite communication systems.
• Working knowledge of U.S. government programs in the areas of protected communications, navigation, signal intelligence (SIGINT), and/or electronic warfare (EW).
• Hands‑on experience with modeling and simulation of anti‑jam waveforms, spread spectrum, beamforming, array processing, interference mitigation, and geolocation techniques.
• Knowledge of modern software‑development practices and tools.
• In‑depth understanding of emerging communication and network technologies (5G, 6G, IoT, IoST).
• Knowledge of machine learning theory, practices, and tools.
• Active TS/SCI clearance or SAP access.

Travel

• This job typically requires 10% domestic travel. Increased travel (up to 20%) may be required.

Security Clearance

• Possess or be eligible to obtain a current and active TS/SCI security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required.

Pay Range

Min – Max: $166,400.00 – $249,600.00. Pay Basis: Annual.

Benefits

• 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‑paid contributions and matching.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

Leadership Competencies

• Operate strategically.
• Lead change.
• Engage with impact.
• Foster innovation.
• Deliver results.

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. For assistance using our online job search and application tools, contact [e-mail].