Space Vehicle Concept Design Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

Space Vehicle Concept Design Engineer leading spacecraft design studies and supporting ground segment concept design activities. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams at the Aerospace Corporation in California and Virginia.

Posted 5/15/2026full-timeEl Segundo • California, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $86,600 - $129,800 per yearWebsite

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
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

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in a relevant engineering or science discipline
2 + 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 ability to work independently and conduct long-term technical studies for geographically dispersed programs
Occasional domestic travel
This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government.

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

ATS Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

spacecraft designsystem engineeringground segment designconcurrent engineering toolsengineering methodologiestechnical studiesmultidisciplinary engineering

Soft Skills

interpersonal skillscommunication skillscollaborative skillsinitiativeadaptabilityability to work independently

Certifications

Bachelor's degreeTop Secret/SCI security clearance