xLab Applied Autonomy Principal 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 Aerospace Corporation's Experiment Lab (xLab) develops prototypes, instruments, pathfinders, and demonstration systems to address our customers' most challenging problems swiftly. We conceptualize innovative solutions and deliver impactful products for ground, space, and everything in between. We are seeking a Principal Engineer with a passion for design, a commitment to teamwork, and a desire to solve today's challenges.
\n
\n
The Principal Engineer will provide advanced technical expertise and develop solutions for complex problems that could benefit from applied autonomy in space. They will drive innovation and the development of new technologies, ensuring high standards of quality and collaboration with cross-functional teams to align technical efforts with business objectives.
\n
\n
Work Model
\n
This is a full-time on site position based in El Segundo, CA., with some flexibility as business needs allow.
\n
\n
What You'll Be Doing
\n
In this role you will support the growing number of deliverable prototypes leveraging computing at the edge. Working closely with customers, xLab and OCTO management, key aspects of your role:
\n

• Develop and Integrate Advanced AI/ML Systems: Develop and manage the execution of a roadmap to achieve broader customer base of missions leveraging Applied Autonomy.
• Prototype Advancement and Industry Leadership: Integrate edge autonomy computing with xLab's prototypes, and position Aerospace as a leader in applied autonomy by advancing from ground test to flight-ready systems.
• Architecture Design: Lead the growth of design and development of satellite and payload architectures, along with on-board computing hardware and software, to support autonomous operations.
• Verification & Validation (V&V): Implement and utilize advanced simulation environments and hardware in the loop test facilities for rigorous V&V of autonomous systems, ensuring reliability and robustness.
• DevOps and Ecosystem Development: Establish and manage DevOps practices for continuous development and maintenance of on-board autonomy, while creating a collaborative ecosystem involving internal teams, government labs, industry partners, and academic researchers.

\n
\n
What You Need to be Successful
\n
Minimum Requirements:
\n

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics or a related technical discipline.
• 16 years of experience in the aerospace industry or related field, with a significant focus on AI/ML systems and autonomous operations.
• Proven track record of developing and integrating advanced AI/ML systems, including the creation and execution of roadmaps for broader mission applications.
• Demonstrated ability to lead the design and development of complex systems and guide teams through the entire lifecycle from concept to flight-ready systems.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to position an organization as an industry leader in applied autonomy.
• Proven experience in creating and managing a collaborative ecosystem involving internal teams, government labs, industry partners, and academic researchers.
• Experience working with and troubleshooting space flight hardware with fast acquisition cycles.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S. citizenship is required.

\n
\n
\n
How You Can Stand Out
\n
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
\n

• Advanced degree in engineering, physics or a related technical discipline
• 20 or more years of experience in the aerospace industry or related fields, with a significant focus on AI/ML systems and autonomous operations

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)
$203,800 - $305,600
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 process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

• 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

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at [email protected] . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.