Space Domain Awareness and Directed Energy Analyst

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.

Join The Aerospace Corporation's Enterprise Effects Division (EED), where innovation meets mission impact. 

Our division tackles the most pressing challenges in space operations—from emerging threats to satellite systems to next-generation space domain awareness capabilities. We're looking for talented professionals who are ready to make a difference in space security, whether you're transitioning from military service, coming from industry, or seeking to apply your technical skills to real-world operational challenges. 

The Space Control and Awareness Department (SCAD) supports critical national security space missions through systems engineering, architecture analysis, modeling and simulation, and operational support. Our work spans space domain awareness (SDA), advanced sensor systems, radar and optical sensors, directed energy and nuclear effects, orbit determination, modeling and simulation, and space protection. 

What You'll Do 

As a Space Domain Awareness and Directed Energy Analyst, you'll contribute to high-impact projects that directly support space operations and national security: 

• Assess Space Threats & Resilience: Evaluate risks to satellite operations from optical threats, such as lasers, nuclear effects, RF threats, debris, collisions, and counterspace activities.  

• Support Space Control Operations: Contribute to orbital warfare and directed energy mission planning and analysis 

• Analyze Sensor Systems and data: Evaluate electro-optical (EO), radar, and passive RF sensor concepts and architectures 

• Model & Simulate: Use cutting-edge tools (custom, commercial, and government systems) to analyze complex space scenarios 

• Support Exercises & Wargaming: Participate in operational simulations that shape future space strategies 

• Collaborate Across the Enterprise: Work with government customers, program offices, and technical teams across Colorado Springs, El Segundo (CA), Chantilly (VA), and beyond 

Who We're Looking For 

Required Qualifications 

• Education: 

• Bachelor or Masters Degree in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Astronomy, or related field 

• Experience in Space Operations: Background in one or more of the following areas: 

• Space Domain Awareness (SDA) or space surveillance 

• Optical and radar sensor systems 

• Space control, counterspace, or space protection missions 

• Satellite operations, orbit analysis, or space situational awareness 

• Directed energy concepts, such as lasers or nuclear effects 

• Analytical & Technical Skills: 

• Experience with modeling, simulation, and/or algorithm development 

• Proficiency in at least one programming language: Python, MATLAB, C++, Java, C, or FORTRAN 

• Ability to develop or use computer tools to solve complex interdisciplinary problems 

• Communication & Collaboration: Strong briefing and interpersonal skills; comfortable working with senior government officials, contractors, and cross-functional teams 

• Security Clearance: Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a government security clearance 

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have!) 

• Active TS/SCI clearance (highly desired) 

• Military or operational background: Experience as an orbit analyst, space control operator, intelligence analyst, or battle manager (air, maritime, or missile defense domains) 

• Sensor operations experience: Familiarity with Space Surveillance Network (SSN) sensors or other space surveillance systems 

• Command & control (C2) background 

• EO or radar sensor expertise  

• Systems engineering or architecture development experience 

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)

$86,600.00 - $150,400.00

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 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 peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.