Digital Systems Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation
paid holidays, sick time, 401(k), relocation assistance
United States, Virginia, Chantilly
Apr 09, 2026
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 Systems Engineering Division (SED) offers unparalleled expertise in systems engineering to the U.S. government and various public and private agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, consortia, and commercial companies involved in the advanced development and application of space systems. From systems CONOPs and architecture development to system design and analysis, mission assurance, cost and schedule assessment, and economic market analysis, SED leverages a vast array of engineering and business disciplines across a dynamic portfolio of space programs and national challenges spanning the total space system lifecycle. The Digital Systems Engineering Department (DSED), part of SED, is charged with helping our customers successfully adopt, integrate, and utilize digital system models, methods, tools, and best practices as part of their systems realization lifecycle processes through DE and MBSE research & development, prototyping, studies, independent assessments, training, and advisory functions. Job Summary Weareseekinga Project Leader with a focusonDigital & Systems Engineering.The ideal candidate for this positionwillwork individually or as part ofateamtoresearch, identify, and implementDE and MBSE approaches for new and existing space and defense systems and advise internal Aerospace and external government customers on the effective use of DE and MBSE methodologies, tools, and practices to achieve their desired system realizationand optimizationoutcomes. Work Model This is a full-timeposition based in El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VAoffering an in-personwork model that combines4 or moreregular onsiteworkdaysper weekand remote flexibility as the business needs allow. What You'll Be Doing Develop and analyzedescriptivemodelsrepresentingcomplexspace, ground,and launchsystemarchitectures and designs. Developvariousmodel patterns,modellibraries,andmodeltemplates forenablingreuseacross projects and programs. ConductDE and MBSEresearch studies and independent assessments. AdvisecustomersonMBSE methods, languages, and toolsets that meet their systems engineering lifecycle needs. Supportthe development ofDE and MBSEtrainingmaterial andassistwithtraining course andseminarevents. Authorand presenttechnicalpaperson DE and MBSE topicsof interest toAerospace andprofessional societiesworking to advance thestate of MBSE research, innovationpractices. What You Need to be Successful B.S.degree in a relevantengineering discipline (Aerospace, Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.), Computer Science, or related technical field. 8+ yearsofexperience in systems engineering in two or more technical areas, including CONOPs development, requirements definition, architecture & design, system analysis, and system integration & test. Proficient with one or more MBSE modeling languages (SysML, UAFML, LML, etc.), methodologies (OOSEM,SysMOD,MagicGrid, etc.), and tools (Cameo,Sparx, Rhapsody, PTC Modeler etc.). Experience in all aspects of space systems engineering, including architecture, engineering design, and engineering analysis. Familiarity with architecture frameworks (DoDAF, UAF, TOGAF). Knowledge of core space system segments (space, ground, transport, launch, etc.) at the enterprise, SoS, system, and subsystem levels. Ability to clearly explain complex concepts to customers and fellow employees. Possess strong organizational, time management and project management skills. Ability to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations. Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing program office sponsor and customer needs. Problem-solving, analytical, and innovation mindset. History of leading teams of skilled systems engineers to conduct technical deep dives, trade studies, and assessments to satisfy projectobjectivesand tasks. History of leading teams delivering systems engineering products or capabilities in support of customer-driven projects. Ability to identify issues, prioritize tasks, facilitate communications, and act as spokesperson for the working group to management/customers. Ability to help sustain, develop, grow, and deploy systems engineering capabilities to support new functional areas for a wide-ranging and expanding customer base. Ability to support workforce development byassistingmanagement with project planning, business development, resource acquisition, training, and mentorship. This position requires the ability to obtainaTS/SCIsecurity clearance issued by the U.S. Government. U.S. citizenship isrequiredto obtain a security clearance. How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: M.S. orPh.D.degreein a relevant engineering discipline (Aerospace, Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.), Computer Science, or related technical discipline. Some experience with developing ontology or semanticdatamodels Knowledge of graph theory and graph database, analysis, and visualization tools Possess knowledge of digital engineering concepts and practical experience developing digital engineering strategies and execution plans. Familiar with digital thread tools such asSyndeiaandeCube. Teaching experience, especially in technical subjects. RelevantINCOSECSEP/ESEPor OMGSysML/UAFMLcertification. Thorough knowledge of Intelligence Community or U.S. Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios Extensive experience communicating results to various sized audiences Demonstrated experience in developing and deploying digital twin models in complex systems environments. Familiarity working with system modeling, simulation, and analysis teams to create cohesive digital twin strategies. 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) $120,800.00 - $181,100.00 Pay Basis: Annual 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 various 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 equalopportunity 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,geneticinformation, 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 emailat peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.