Space-to-Ground Systems Integration Engineer

Job Summary The selected candidate will be required to work full‑time, on‑site at our facility in El Segundo, CA (or alternative locations at Colorado Springs, CO or Chantilly, VA). Responsibilities Lead cross‑segment systems integration across space‑to‑ground, ground‑to‑user, and space‑to‑user interfaces for mission‑critical satellite and ground systems. Ensure seamless integration between space vehicles, ground control systems, user equipment, and communication networks. Develop and execute comprehensive test and verification programs for space, ground, and user segment systems. Create and review system functional and performance test plans, defining verification and validation approaches, and supporting program and design reviews throughout development, test, and transition to operations. Manage requirements flow‑down and verification for space and ground segment systems, including Interface Control Documents (ICDs), engineering models, simulations, testbeds, and special test equipment. Ensure requirements traceability from mission concept of operations through prototype development, initial flight checkout, flight operations, and operational transition. Provide mission assurance and systems engineering support for space‑to‑ground architecture development in commercial cloud environments (AWS, Azure, or GCP). Identify technical risks, develop mitigation strategies, and ensure integration efforts meet mission objectives and security requirements. Analyze and recommend solutions for space‑to‑ground system architecture, software design, acquisition strategies, operations, and sustainment. Support decision‑making processes through technical analysis, trade studies, and risk assessments. Establish modern development practices by implementing Agile and DevSecOps methodologies for space‑to‑ground system software development. Define development metrics, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines, and automated testing frameworks. Create integration plans and coordinate across disciplines by developing space‑to‑ground, space‑to‑user, and ground‑to‑user segment integration plans (SIPs), system engineering plans (SEPs), system test and integration plans (STIPs) using Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMP) and Systems Engineering Management Plans (SEMP). Lead requirements verification activities and coordinate with spacecraft systems, flight software, ground software, and operations teams to ensure end‑to‑end mission success. Support operational testing and evaluation by participating in developmental tests (DT), operational tests (OT), and integrated test events. Analyze test results, document findings, and provide technical recommendations to government customers and program leadership. Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related technical field. 5 years of experience in Test and Evaluation (T&E), verification of space‑to‑ground or ground‑to‑user segment interface requirements including systems engineering, and/or operations of space systems, satellites, and/or ground systems infrastructure within the U.S. government agencies and/or aerospace industry. Direct experience with space systems (satellite development, ground station operations, mission operations, or space system integration). Understanding of space and/or ground system architecture and satellite operations including orbital mechanics, satellite subsystems (e.g., spacecraft bus, payload), ground system functions (command and control, telemetry and mission data processing, and space‑to‑ground (or ground‑to‑user) data links and protocols). Experience with systems (and/or system of systems) integration planning, execution, and test; familiarity with System Integration Plans (SIP), Systems Engineering Plans (SEP), and System Test and Integration Plans (STIP). Experience with systems engineering tools (e.g., Cameo), test management software, simulation environments (STK, Simulink), or scripting languages (Python, MATLAB). Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment with strong communication skills. Secret clearance required (active clearance preferred, or ability to obtain one). Engineering Specialist Additional Requirements 8 years of experience in Test and Evaluation (T&E), verification of space‑to‑ground or ground‑to‑user segment interface requirements including systems engineering, and/or operations of space systems, satellites, and/or ground systems infrastructure within the U.S. government agencies and/or aerospace industry. Working knowledge of Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) Test and Evaluation processes and documentation, including familiarity with DoDI 5000 series acquisition policies, Developmental Tests (DT), Operational Tests (OT), integrated test strategies, Test and Evaluation Master Plans (TEMP), Systems Engineering Management Plans (SEMP). Experience with test planning, execution, and analysis using test management software, simulation environments, statistical tools, and technical reporting for U.S. government agency evaluation and decision processes. Ability to independently lead multiple cross‑functional technical teams, multiple concurrent tasks, and communicate technical information clearly and persuasively. Preferred Qualifications Advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related technical field. Mission testing and integration knowledge and experience for specific U.S. Space Force (USSF), Intelligence Community (IC), or commercial customers. Ability to take a system‑level perspective and flow down salient aspects of system behavior into requirements and assess requirements verification evidence/counterevidence into system level effect analysis. Knowledge of cloud/virtual architecture and agile testing methodologies for software integration and test. Experience leveraging Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) technologies to optimize testing workflows and integration efficiency. Travel domestically 10–20% of the time (potentially OCONUS) for test events, program reviews, and customer meetings, as needed. Active TS/SCI clearance (or ability to obtain one). Compensation Grade‑based pay range: $100,300.00 – $175,900.00 (annual). Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. Benefits Comprehensive health care and wellness plans. Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation. Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options. 401(k) Plan with 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 upon hire. Flexible spending accounts. Variable pay program for exceptional contributions. Relocation assistance. Professional growth and development programs. 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 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 e‑mail at View email address on click.appcast.io. U.S. citizenship is required for this position. Aerospace employees with technical responsibilities are required to obtain a security clearance. #J-18808-Ljbffr The Aerospace Corporation