Space Vehicle Concepts Design Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

Spacecraft concepts engineer leading early-stage vehicle design studies and analysis tools. Supporting ground-system concepts for The Aerospace Corporation’s national space customers.

Posted 9/7/2026full-timeEl Segundo • California, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesSeniorLead💰 $100,000 - $140,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates strong knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and system engineering, with the ability to lead design studies and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. Proficient in concurrent engineering tools and methodologies, with a focus on continuous improvement in spacecraft concept design.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Spacecraft Subsystems KnowledgeSystem EngineeringConcurrent Engineering ToolsInterpersonal SkillsMS Office Proficiency

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Soft Skills

Excellent Communication SkillsAbility to Work IndependentlyAdaptability in Fast-Paced EnvironmentsDemonstrated Initiative Under Pressure

Certifications & Qualifications

Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

Spacecraft Concept DesignDesign StudiesMultidisciplinary TeamsTechnical StudiesGeographically Dispersed Programs

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead early-stage design studies for spacecraft concepts, including small individual efforts and larger multidisciplinary teams
Lead continuous development, maintenance, and improvement of tools and models used during spacecraft concept design and analysis
Support development of capabilities within VGCD for ground segment concept design assessment
Establish strong working relationships with government, program office, contractor personnel, and Aerospace engineering groups

Requirements

What you’ll need

Master’s degree from an accredited program in a relevant engineering or science discipline pursuing or conferred within last 12 months
0-1 years of industry work experience
Minimum GPA 3.0
A strong knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and system engineering
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, adapt quickly to change, and demonstrate initiative under pressure
Excellent interpersonal and communications skills and ability to excel in a collaborative environment; proficiency with office and collaboration tools, such as MS Office
Demonstrated knowledge of concurrent engineering tools, processes, and methodologies
Demonstrated ability to work independently and conduct long-term technical studies for geographically dispersed programs
Occasional domestic travel
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance
U.S. citizenship required to obtain a security clearance
Transcripts required

Benefits

Comp & perks

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