2026 Space Optimization Analyst

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. They are seeking a Space Optimization Analyst to conduct deep dives, trade studies, and assessments in space architecture design and optimization, leveraging engineering analysis tools to deliver insights and support decision-making for high-impact projects.

Responsibilities

• Independently and collaboratively conducting deep dives, trade studies, and assessments to define and address customer needs in the areas of space architecture design and optimization, trade space exploration, and portfolio analysis
• Leveraging in-house and commercial- and government-off-the-shelf engineering analysis tools to deliver technical insights through analytical deep dives, trade studies, and assessments in department focus areas
• Contributing to the development of analysis software tools and actively pursuing opportunities to enhance and improve existing simulation and analysis capabilities for a wide range of customers
• Developing and presenting timely and technically accurate presentations and reports that clearly communicate analysis results and provide recommended solutions to technical leads, management, and customers
• Building and maintaining a strong base of customers and collaborators for the department through effective working relationships with cross-organization partners, government customers, and contractor teammates

Skills

• MS degree in aerospace, astronautical, or mechanical engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field of science or engineering (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
• 0-1 year of industry work experience
• Experience with constellation design, orbital mechanics, or mathematics related to satellite access geometry
• Knowledge of Python, C, C++, MATLAB, or another programming language
• Ability to support multiple programs and/or activities, acting as a technical contributor across both individual and broader team efforts
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance with CI polygraph, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
• Transcripts required with this position
• Familiarity with one of these specific national security space or intelligence mission areas: geo-spatial intelligence, signals intelligence, space surveillance, space protection, ground systems, or communications infrastructure
• Background in one or more of the following areas: optimization techniques, genetic algorithms, space mission design, satellite constellation performance modeling, satellite orbit access analysis, simulation development, or payload/bus design
• Experience working independently on creating, executing, and debugging modeling and simulation tools
• Current TS/SCI access with a current CI polygraph

Benefits

• 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

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