Software Systems Engineer

aero; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 117,300 - 175,900; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health care

401(k) Plan with employer contributions

Flexible work schedule

Education assistance programs

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation seeks a full-time Engineering Specialist in Systems Software Engineering and Cloud Computing Architecture to join our team in Chantilly, VA. The role involves leading software development teams and integrating advanced technologies like AI into space solutions.

Candidates need a Bachelor's degree in STEM, 6+ years of experience, and the ability to work collaboratively in Agile environments. A competitive salary and robust benefits package are offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field, with emphasis in computer science or software engineering.
• 6 or more years of professional software engineering experience.
• Hands-on experience with complex, software-reliant systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead software development teams for cross-domain space solutions.
• Develop software for national security, civil, and commercial domains.
• Identify opportunities for adopting new technologies.

Skills

Software engineering

Agile methodologies

C/C++

Linux environments

AI technologies

Education

Bachelor's degree in a STEM field

Tools

Atlassian tools

Git

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.

The Software Implementation and Integration Department (SIID) specializes in transforming advanced technologies into operational reality for our customers. Our team focuses on the practical integration of AI, cloud-native services, and data platforms, ensuring seamless interoperability across complex enterprise environments. We employ modern integration patterns and automated deployment pipelines to bridge the gap between innovative solutions and mission‑critical systems.

Work Model

• This is a full‑time position located at Chantilly, VA and requires 100% onsite work.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead Software Development teams across the corporation to develop cross‑domain space solutions.
• Develop software in a modern language to support space, ground, and launch systems in the national security, civil, and commercial domains.
• Leverage your software engineering skills to solve complex problems in various software systems domains.
• Identify exciting opportunities for adopting new technologies, such as AI, to solve existing needs and predict future challenges.
• Drive positive change by introducing new perspectives, challenging established practices, and fostering a culture of innovation within the team.
• Operate strategically through engaging with customers to leverage the latest technology that provides innovative solutions to their challenging problems in the space arena.
• Learn and grow through new work opportunities, training, and mentorship from experienced staff.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for the Engineering Specialist – Systems Software Engineering and Cloud Computing Architecture

• Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field, with emphasis in computer science, software engineering, computer or information systems, management sciences, or closely related technical discipline.
• 6 or more years of professional software engineering experience.
• Hands‑on experience in the development of complex, software‑reliant systems.
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies and team collaborative development using Atlassian tools (e.g., JIRA, Confluence, BitBucket, SourceTree).
• Demonstrated ability in coding and scripting with at least two different programming languages (e.g., Java, C/C++).
• Hands‑on experience with Linux environments.
• Willingness to travel approximately 10% domestically (customer sites, locations, etc.).
• This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out

• Advanced degree in STEM with an emphasis in Computer Science or other sciences/engineering discipline.
• In‑depth knowledge and experience in AI/LLM.
• Experience using collaborative source code management (Git, Subversion), IaaC, and DevSecOps.
• Proven experience with Windows and Linux development environments.

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)

$117,300.00 - $175,900.00 Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

• Operate Strategically
• Lead 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

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 [e-mail]. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.