Mission Planning and Optimization Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace’s strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division   leverages   a broad array of engineering disciplines against a   wide-ranging   and dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities.  As a core  component  of EED, the Emerging Missions Flight Dynamics (EMFD) Department provides flight mechanics  expertise  for the cislunar domain, multi- objective  “traveling salesman” trajectory sequence generation, facility location optimization, and trans-atmospheric flight design for missiles,  hyperglide  vehicles, and reentry vehicles.   We are looking for an  Engineering Specialist  to serve as a technical expert and local point of contact for our customer organizations. The selected candidate will tackle complex optimization and mission planning challenges, requiring   expertise   in areas such as  trajectory optimization, tree search algorithms, combinatorial optimization, orbital mechanics/astrodynamics, and decision-making under uncertainty . This role combines technical depth with   strong communication   abilities to influence stakeholders and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. As the department's local technical representative,   you'll   lead analysis efforts, mentor junior staff, and help   identify   new opportunities for our most challenging customer problems.   Work Mode l   This is a   full-time   position based in   El Segundo, CA , which requires   100% onsite   work .   What   You’ll   Be Doing    S erve as   a   technical representative, building strategic relationships with program offices   and   delivering specialized analysis for   defense, intelligence, civil and commercial organizations.   Perform and lead   complex optimization analysis for time-dependent Traveling Salesman and Facility Location Problems using tree search algorithms and   multi -objective   optimization techniques.   Design and   optimize   spacecraft maneuvers for orbit transfer, station keeping, disposal, and reentry events across cislunar and Earth-orbit missions.   Evaluate contested space   mission applications   to assess system vulnerabilities and develop resilient Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) and Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs).   Develop innovative flight dynamics tools and algorithms that expand the department's analytical capabilities and directly address emerging customer needs.   Mentor junior staff and foster knowledge sharing across multidisciplinary teams to strengthen the department's technical   expertise .   What You Need to be Successful    Minimum   Requirements   for   Engineering Specialist – Flight Mechanics :   BS   degree   from   an accredited college/university program in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or related field   Eight or more years of   related industry/work experience    Experience in one or more of the following subjects: space mission analysis and design, advanced astrodynamics, algorithm design, software development, mathematical modeling, multi-objective optimization,   decision making under uncertainty,   trajectory simulation and performance optimization of spacecraft, missiles, and reentry vehicles   Proficiency  with one or more of the following programming languages/tools: C, C++, Python, Fortran, MATLAB, JavaScript    Effective written and verbal communication skills    The ability to  operate  independently, often in the presence of ambiguity, and still deliver high-quality, innovative, and specialized end products to a range of customers     Willing to travel domestically to customer and contractor facilities (approx. 10%)     This position requires ability to obtain and   maintain   a security clearance, which is issued by the U . S .   government. U.S .   citizenship is   required   to obtain a security clearance.   How You Can Stand Out    It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:   MS or PhD   degree   from   an accredited college/university program in engineering, mathematics, physics, computer science, or related field   Graduate level course work,  research  and/or experience in the following areas:  multi-objective optimization, decision making under uncertaint y , astrodynamics    Experience with contested space trajectory applications   Experience leading customer engagements,   identifying   new work opportunities, or serving as a technical point of contact for government programs or sponsors   We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max) $129,000.00 - $193,500.00 Pay Basis: Annual Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we wan