Senior Software Architecture & Cloud 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 Information Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD) is seeking a senior technical leader with 12+ years of experience delivering complex software systems within mission-critical environments. This role is ideal for a seasoned engineer who brings deep expertise across software integration, cloud/container modernization, automated test and CI/CD pipeline engineering, and leading cross-functional development teams. You will act as a principal advisor and architect, guiding customers and engineering organizations through modernization efforts, containerization strategies, DevSecOps transformations, and evidence-based continuous assurance workflows. You will bridge the gap between commercial cloud-native technologies and high-assurance national security environments, influencing enterprise direction and technical execution. This is an opportunity to shape the future of secure aerospace software systems through architecture leadership, technical rigor, hands-on expertise, and organizational influence. Work Model This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work. What You’ll Be Doing Technical & Architecture Leadership: Provide senior-level architectural direction for mission-critical software systems spanning space, ground, and launch environments. Software Modernization: Lead the evolution of legacy monolithic architectures into modern, resilient, microservices-based configurations deployed across cloud and virtualized environments. DevSecOps Integration: Design and champion enterprise-scale automated pipeline architectures, transitioning manual security and compliance verification into modern, evidence-based continuous assurance. Cloud-Native & Containerization Strategy: Lead rigorous technical trade studies and rapid prototyping efforts to evaluate and securely implement emerging cloud-native, containerization, and orchestration technologies. Systems Integration & Verification Leadership: Oversee end-to-end software integration and segment-level verification, including requirements sell-off, witnessed demonstrations, and cross-functional coordination Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration: Interface directly with customers, systems engineering teams, security teams, and program leadership to align technical execution with mission priorities. Culture of Innovation: Champion modern software development methodologies, driving positive change by introducing new commercial perspectives, challenging established practices, and mentoring junior engineers. What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field. 12+ years of progressive experience in software engineering, integration, architecture, or DevSecOps roles spanning development, test, and modernization environments. Hands on experience building CI/CD pipelines, custom testing frameworks, or automation infrastructure. Hands-on experience with modern software development, integration workflows, and infrastructure-as-code concepts. Demonstrated technical communication and ability to lead cross-functional technical teams. Ability to prioritize, execute, and deliver in high-visibility, fast-paced mission environments. Willingness to travel occasionally to work locations or customer sites as required. 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: Advanced degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in a STEM or related technical field. Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with a proven track record of translating complex technical concepts into clear business and mission value for non-technical stakeholders. Extensive experience deploying, orchestrating (e.g., Kubernetes), and securing applications within enterprise cloud environments (AWS, Azure, or hybrid environments). Proven experience conducting "Build vs. Buy" analyses for enterprise-scale software tooling, factoring in long-term sustainability and total cost of ownership. Experience integrating open-source and commercial security, repository, or observability tools into automated enterprise software supply chains. Strong track record of building, mentoring, and leading technical teams or working groups from the ground up. Active TS/SCI clearance. 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) $166,400.00 - $249,600.00 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 want individuals who: Operate Strategically Lead Change    Engage with Impact    Foster Innovation    Deliver Results   Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview proces