Space Optimization Analyst

The Aerospace Corporation

Technical staff applying sophisticated simulation tools to support space architecture design and optimization across various programs and challenges. Collaborating on high-impact projects within the national space enterprise.

Posted 6/3/2026full-timeChantilly • California, Colorado, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesJunior💰 $100,000 - $110,000 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Python

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Independently and collaboratively conducting deep dives, trade studies, and assessments to define and address customer needs in the areas of space architecture design and optimization, trade space exploration, and portfolio analysis
Leveraging in-house and commercial- and government-off-the-shelf engineering analysis tools to deliver technical insights through analytical deep dives, trade studies, and assessments in department focus areas
Contributing to the development of analysis software tools and actively pursuing opportunities to enhance and improve existing simulation and analysis capabilities for a wide range of customers
Developing and presenting timely and technically accurate presentations and reports that clearly communicate analysis results and provide recommended solutions to technical leads, management, and customers
Building and maintaining a strong base of customers and collaborators for the department through effective working relationships with cross-organization partners, government customers, and contractor teammates

Requirements

What you’ll need

MS degree in aerospace, astronautical, or mechanical engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field of science or engineering (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
0-1 year of industry work experience
Experience with constellation design, orbital mechanics, or mathematics related to satellite access geometry
Knowledge of Python, C, C++, MATLAB, or another programming language
Ability to support multiple programs and/or activities, acting as a technical contributor across both individual and broader team efforts
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance with CI polygraph, which is issued by the US government.
U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
Transcripts required with this position

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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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

PythonCC++MATLABconstellation designorbital mechanicsmathematicsengineering analysis toolssimulation capabilitiesportfolio analysis

Soft Skills

collaborationcommunicationtechnical presentationrelationship buildinganalytical thinkingproblem-solvingcustomer engagementteamworkadaptabilitytechnical contribution

Certifications

Top Secret/SCI security clearanceCI polygraph