Payload Space Systems Hardware Project Leader / Senior Project Leader

The Aerospace Corporation

Project Leader overseeing electro-optical engineering and hardware integration for national security space programs. Leading technical teams to deliver high-stakes engineering solutions across multiple states.

Posted 7/15/2026full-timeChantilly • California, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $171,400 - $257,100 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in electro-optical engineering and electrical engineering hardware integration testing, with a strong focus on leading technical teams and managing risks throughout the acquisition life cycle. Proven ability to communicate effectively with government customers and collaborate across diverse technical groups.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Electro-Optical EngineeringElectrical Engineering Hardware Integration TestingTeam LeadershipTechnical Risk ManagementTS/SCI Security Clearance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Hardware Anomaly InvestigationPayload-Related Hardware IssuesTechnical ArchitectureEngineering Project ManagementBudget Development

Soft Skills

Effective CommunicationCollaboration

Certifications & Qualifications

TS/SCI Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

AerospaceAcquisition Life CycleSpace Vehicle ElectronicsDynamic Program Office Environment

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

TypeScript

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Identify payload-related hardware issues / risks, document mitigations, and make recommendations to government customers within a dynamic program office environment
Support and/or lead applicable hardware anomaly investigations
Serve as a principal technical representative on all payload related electronics hardware to the customer and facilitate communications with the broader customer payload community
Lead a diverse team of technical experts within Aerospace ETG to manage and mitigate all technical risks that arise throughout the entire acquisition life cycle
Ensure effective collaboration and communication related to space vehicle electronics hardware design, test, and operation across GDO and IPD
Monitor and assist in development of budgets and other resource allocations to accomplish tasks within the payload group

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering, mathematics, science, or related technical discipline
Minimum of 8 years of experience with electro-optical engineering and/or electrical engineering hardware integration testing in roles of increasing responsibility, as well as leading teams in technical, architecture, strategy, and engineering projects and tasks
Willing to travel domestically (up to 1 week per month)
This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph, which is issued by the US government
U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
Minimum of 12 years of experience with electro-optical engineering and/or electrical engineering hardware integration testing in roles of increasing responsibility for Senior Project Leader

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