Space Vehicle Concept Design Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

Designing spacecraft concepts and ground segment solutions for US Space Force and commercial customers. Leading multidisciplinary teams and utilizing AI in the development of spacecraft systems.

Posted 5/15/2026full-timeColorado Springs • California, Colorado, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $100,300 - $150,400 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

TypeScript

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Leading early-stage design studies for spacecraft concepts; types of studies can include both small, individual efforts as well as larger, multidisciplinary teams of subject matter experts.
Serving as a subject matter expert in spacecraft-level systems engineering to support execution of customer programs , including during design reviews and other milestones .
Leading the development of capabilities utilizing AI in the concept development of spacecraft or spacecraft ground systems.
Leading continuous development, maintenance, and improvement of the tools and models that are used during spacecraft concept design and analysis activities.
Supporting the development of similar capabilities within VGCD for the assessment of ground segment concept design
Establishing strong working relationships with government, program office, and contractor personnel as well as other members of Aerospace’s engineering group.
Mentoring junior members of the department

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in a relevant engineering or science discipline.
4 + years of relevant experience working on multi-disciplinary engineering teams with a focus on spacecraft or ground segment design
A strong knowledge of spacecraft subsystems and system engineering ; some knowledge of ground segment concepts
Proven 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 experience in concurrent engineering tools, processes, and methodologies
Demonstrated experience using AI in systems design processes.
Demonstrated ability to work independently and conduct long-term technical studies for geographically dispersed programs
Occasional domestic travel
Current or active TS/SSBI and ability to maintain a TS/SCI clearance .

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

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Hard Skills & Tools

systems engineeringspacecraft subsystemsAI in systems designconcurrent engineering toolsdesign reviewsconcept developmentground segment designtechnical studiesmultidisciplinary engineering

Soft Skills

interpersonal skillscommunication skillscollaborative environmentadaptabilityinitiative under pressurementoringrelationship building

Certifications

Bachelor’s degreeTS/SSBI clearanceTS/SCI clearance