Digital Communications & DSP 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 the Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country’s space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD! Interested in prototyping cutting-edge communication and Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) systems that will drive future acquisition programs? Then a role as a Digital Communications & Signal Processing Engineer in the Digital Communication Implementation Department (DCID), under The Aerospace Corporation’s MPD, is the ideal landing spot for your next career move! DCID uses software‑defined radios and FPGA technology to develop advanced communication and navigation system prototypes (GNSS, PNT, GPS, etc.) that solve the toughest problems related to digital communication systems. DCID’s support includes guiding the acquisition of next generation communication and navigation systems needed by our customer, helping industry implement cutting‑edge technology and creating innovative solutions to our customers’ most challenging problems. Our group supports exciting programs such as the Aerospace CubeSat SlingShot Platform, development of the Payload Characterization and Environments (PACE) Lab, and compete in challenges such as the Blind Signal Classification Challenge. Please join us on the leading edge of digital communications. The selected candidate will be required to work full time on‑site at our facility at El Segundo, CA. What You’ll Be Doing Job Summary: Develop and implement signal processing algorithms with applications to space‑based digital communication systems as well as GPS/GNSS/Software Defined Radio receivers. Analyze signal processing performance using MATLAB, Python, or similar simulation environments. Prototype cutting‑edge real‑time digital communication systems for emulation and proof of concept. Document work products in briefings and/or technical reports to customers and colleagues. What You Need to be Successful – Engineering Specialist Minimum Requirements Master’s degree from an accredited university in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science. Minimum 8 years of experience in digital signal processing and digital communications. Proficiency with MATLAB, C/C++, Python, or VHDL. Experience implementing digital communication and/or DSP algorithms in hardware (FPGAs) or in software. This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a Top‑Secret level clearance with SCI access, which will be issued after the start date. How You Can Stand Out Ph.D. degree from an accredited university in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science. Proficiency in Verilog/VHDL, logic implementation, and simulation tools for complex FPGA designs. Experience using GNURadio, USRPs, and AMD FPGAs. Proficiency in GPU programming, hardware acceleration, and process parallelization. Skill with RF lab equipment (spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, oscilloscopes). Familiarity with Linux, Real‑Time Operating Systems, and DevOps tools (Jira, Git, Jenkins). Exposure to AI/ML concepts. 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 role is $129,000.00 - $193,500.00 per year. 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. Below are a few highlights: 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 are 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 View phone number on click.appcast.io or by email at View email address on click.appcast.io . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Aerospace Corporation