The Aerospace Corporation is a trusted collaborator with the nation’s space initiatives, tackling the most challenging issues and offering unparalleled technical expertise. As a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are actively involved in all areas of space—providing innovative solutions across satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial sectors. When you join us, you become part of a unique team of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Take your place in space with us.

Within our Mission Payloads Division (MPD), we lead advancements in remote sensing systems that support the nation’s space missions. Our skilled and diverse team thrives in areas such as electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data networks. We push the boundaries of technology through research, development, demonstration, and integration. MPD’s cutting-edge labs and prototyping capabilities deliver transformative results. We support the Department of Defense, intelligence agencies, and civil organizations in improving national security and addressing critical missions. Bring your creativity and expertise to MPD!

The Sensor Modeling and Simulation Department (SMSD), part of MPD, comprises scientists and engineers from a variety of disciplines who are focused on developing the next generation of nationally significant remote sensing systems. SMSD contributes to all phases of remote sensing system development, including optical and electro-optical design and evaluation, full system modeling, innovative data processing, and simulated data generation for emerging applications.

Work Location:
This is a full-time, on-site position located in Chantilly, VA.

Key Responsibilities:

– Develop and apply advanced techniques and tools in areas such as image chain modeling, spectroscopy, computer vision, change detection and tracking, space domain awareness, lidar and 3D sensing, EO/IR remote sensing, product quality metrics, optics, calibration, and data simulation.
– Conduct and document studies using both deterministic and probabilistic numerical analysis methods.
– Provide guidance to government and internal Aerospace clients on remote sensing system performance for both operational and R&D purposes.
– Present and advocate for your work to customers and contractors to influence decisions and shape system requirements.
– Collaborate in small teams to build physics-based modeling code and develop comprehensive system performance modeling tools.

Basic Qualifications – Engineering Specialist:

– Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field such as Remote Sensing, Imaging Science, Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, Optical or Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
– At least eight years of experience post-bachelor’s in remote sensing system modeling, simulation, design, data processing, calibration, characterization, phenomenology, or applications.
– Proficiency in scientific programming and version control, preferably with C++, Python, and git.
– Strong communication skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly.
– Experience in modeling and evaluating remote sensing systems.
– Willingness to travel about 10% of the time.
– Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance.

Additional Qualifications – Senior Engineering Specialist:

– Minimum of twelve years of relevant post-graduate experience.
– Demonstrated leadership and mentoring capabilities.
– Experience modeling and simulating electro-optical, visible, and/or infrared remote sensing systems, including key performance metrics (e.g., SNR, Pd, Pfa).

Preferred Qualifications:

– Advanced degree in a related STEM field.
– Experience with image reduction processes (e.g., bias removal, gain correction).
– Familiarity with various EO/IR imaging systems such as panchromatic/visible, infrared, multispectral, hyperspectral, ultraviolet, motion detection, and 3D imaging.
– Knowledge of atmospheric radiative transfer modeling.
– Experience with agile development and Atlassian tools (Jira, Confluence).
– Expertise in sensor hardware performance and evaluation.
– Skills in synthetic scene generation (e.g., DIRSIG).
– Active Top Secret/SCI clearance.

Leadership at Aerospace:

We believe leadership can be demonstrated at every level. We seek individuals who:

– Think strategically
– Drive change
– Communicate effectively
– Foster innovation
– Deliver impactful results

Employee Benefits:

During the hiring process, we’ll share details about our competitive benefits, which may include:

– Comprehensive health and wellness plans
– Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
– Flexible work schedules and telework options
– 401(k) plan with company contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% based on tenure
– Flexible spending accounts
– Performance-based variable pay
– Relocation support
– Career development and education assistance
– A collaborative and respectful work environment

Diversity and Inclusion:

We value the unique backgrounds and experiences of all our employees. What unites us is our shared belief in making a difference. This belief drives our best work.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

The Aerospace Corporation is committed to equal opportunity in employment. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status. If you require assistance with the application process due to a disability, please contact us.