Comm Systems and Cognitive Radio Engineer

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 Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

The Communication Technologies and Engineering Division (CTED) represents the disciplines of communications, networking, and PNT (Position, Navigation, and Timing) in support of space missions, along with their enabling technologies. In our domain, CTED projects comprise all aspects, from architectures to prototypes to implementation, theoretical to hands-on.  Our engineers work directly with corporate and U.S. Government customers to ensure robust and resilient communications. 

The Communication Software Implementation Department (CSID) develops novel algorithms and prototypes using software defined radios to enable the space enterprise. We are subject matter experts who provide technical advice to our customers on satellite communication systems and use state-of-the-art algorithms to build our customers future capabilities. 

Work Model: This position has some flexibility to be hybrid; however, the position is mostly on-site in El Segundo.  The job includes on-site lab work and classified projects. 

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Design, build, test, and demonstrate software/hardware prototypes for intelligent, cognitive radios 

• Deliver tech demos and briefings to internal stakeholders and to external customers 

• Provide technical guidance and insight to external customers 

• Pitch ideas for new research and development projects 

What You Need to be Successful – Senior Member of Technical Staff 

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or related discipline 

• Four years of related experience with modern communication and digital signal processing techniques 

• Experience with Linux or development on a Linux platform 

• Strong coding skills in either C++ or Python 

• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. Government.  U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance 

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Engineering Specialist include: 

• Proven technical leadership skills with demonstrated project management experience from initial concept to execution and Aerospace-quality product delivery 

• Minimum of six years of relevant experience 

How You Can Stand Out 

• Experience in satellite communications, CubeSats, or GPS/GNSS/PNT systems 

• Software defined radio development (GNU Radio) or experience with USRP or similar SDR platforms 

• Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning techniques and machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, Keras, scikit-learn, PyTorch 

• Possess an active TS/SCI security clearance 

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)

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• 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

We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. 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 ieo.mailbox@aero.org. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.