Space Network Systems Architect

aero; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 129,000 - 193,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health care plans

Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

401(k) Plan

Education assistance programs

Job summary

Aerospace Corporation is seeking a Space Network Systems Architect in El Segundo, CA. This role involves leading the development of innovative network concepts for space communication systems, ensuring robust design and performance.

The ideal candidate has an extensive engineering background with 8+ years of experience and a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Key responsibilities include overseeing multi-disciplinary engineering teams, developing cutting-edge network protocols, and analyzing complex network systems.

We offer a competitive salary range between $129,000 and $193,500 annually, alongside comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience designing network topology/architecture for ground‑based and satellite networks.
• Strong understanding of network layers, protocols, and routing algorithms.
• Experience in network design, analysis, and modeling & simulation.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering teams in developing network architectures.
• Develop advanced network protocols, routing, and QoS algorithms.
• Analyze and simulate complex network architectures and protocols.

Skills

Networking architecture and design

Network protocols and routing

Systems engineering

Python

Cloud Computing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related discipline

Tools

MATLAB

C/C++

Job description

Overview

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. MPD’s Network Systems Department (NSD) is seeking an innovative Space Network Systems Architect with a strong background in networking architecture and design. You will lead and support the development of future network concepts, architectures, requirements, prototyping, performing network trade studies, and technology demonstrations. You will also perform network analyses to optimize the overall performance of terrestrial, satellite, launch vehicle, and ground‑based communication systems. The implementation of optical communication networking physical testbeds that require configuration of endpoint appliances, switches, routers, and firewalls is also within scope. A qualified candidate will possess an in-depth understanding of the latest networking and enterprise computing technologies, and the ability to develop new concepts and solve the toughest problems for our customers.

Work Model

Full time on‑site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead and participate in multi‑disciplinary engineering teams in the development and analysis of future network architectures, and assist in defining future requirements to achieve mission success.
• Direct development and implementation of advanced network protocols, routing, and QoS algorithms and architectures.
• Run various systems engineering tasks and projects through systems architecture definition, development, analysis, modeling & simulation, and prototype development/validation.
• Evaluate and develop novel communication engineering technologies.
• Analyze and simulate complex network architectures and protocols.
• Provide independent technical leadership, mentorship, and direction to less experienced staff.
• Coordinate tasks and participate in technical meetings for DoD, IC, and Civil & Commercial customers, working closely with members of a diverse team comprising military officers and government civilians, prime contractors, SE&I contractors and other FFRDCs.
• Lead specialized technical studies and internal research and development projects to develop the next generation of Space and Ground network concepts, architectures, and technologies.
• Support sustainment and development of core network simulation, emulation, and modeling capabilities.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities with current and new customers.

What You Need to be Successful – Engineering Specialist

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Eight or more years of related experience with a strong capability of designing network topology/architecture for ground‑based and satellite networks.
• Strong understanding of network layers, protocols, and routing algorithms.
• Experience in network design, analysis, and some modeling & simulation.
• Experience in virtualization and enterprise computing platforms.
• Familiar with the latest networking/computing trends and technologies.
• Capability to travel to support customers at various locations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a US TS/SCI security clearance; US citizenship is required.

How You Can Stand Out

• Advanced technical degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or another related discipline.
• Current CCIE or CCNP Cisco Certification.
• Experience utilizing Python, MATLAB, and/or C/C++.
• Strong expertise in Cloud Computing.
• Experience with military and commercial satellite communication systems and network engineering.
• Experience with inter‑satellite cross‑links and laser optical communication technologies.
• Project development experience and demonstrated ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams.
• In‑depth understanding of emerging communication and network technologies (5G, IoT, IoST).
• Current and active U.S. Government issued DOD - Secret Clearance or higher.

Compensation

(Min – Max) $129,000.00 – $193,500.00 Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

• 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 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 needs 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.