Software System ArchitectThe 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 Space Domain Superiority Directorate, in the Special Programs Division, supports a broad array of Combat Power missions covering the entire threat response chain from the Space Domain Awareness function through the multidomain effects needed for space superiority. These programs include major system acquisitions for multiple ground and space segments, future architecture definition at the data/software/hardware levels, and research and technology for continuous evolution of space warfighting capabilities.We are looking for a Software System Architect to contribute to a team that is developing and delivering a critical space control capability to guarantee space superiority for our nation.
This work is focused on supporting all aspects of implementing programs within the tightly integrated program office consisting of military, Aerospace, and SETA personnel. You will work on site in the government program office, where you will have frequent interaction with the government and support contractors. This opportunity will also collaborate with National Security Space mission partners that are building and integrating capabilities. This position allows for the opportunity to see your contributions to a critical mission become realized in the near future.As a Software Systems Architect in the space domain, you will be responsible for overseeing the design, integration, and delivery of complex software systems from multiple vendors. Your focus will be on creating a robust, modular architecture that allows seamless collaboration between teams and ensures our space technologies are scalable, secure, and high-performing.
Working in close collaboration with cross-functional teams (software engineers, hardware engineers, system integrators, and vendors), you will shape the future of our product line.The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, California.What You'll Be DoingArchitect and oversee the delivery of highly scalable, fault-tolerant, and secure systemsDefine and enforce architectural standards, ensuring that solutions meet performance, security, and scalability requirementsCollaborate with product managers, engineers, and external vendors to develop technical roadmaps and timelinesLead technical reviews and design discussions with multiple vendors to ensure system integration aligns with overall project objectivesEstablish and implement middleware and modular design frameworks (e.g., AUTOSAR, DDS, ROS) to support a modular software ecosystemDevelop and maintain architectural blueprints and documentation for all systems and componentsEnsure compliance with industry standards and certifications relevant to the space domain (e.g., ECSS, CCSDS)Provide mentorship and guidance to development teams and vendors to ensure architectural best practices are followedCollaborate on system testing, validation, and verification with teams to ensure a smooth performance of systemsAct as a point of escalation for complex technical challenges, working closely with vendors to troubleshoot and resolve issuesWhat You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements for Project Leader–Systems Software Engineering and Software Architecture Engineering:Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related STEM field8 or more years of experience in software architecture, system design, and systems integrationProven experience working with vendors to deliver large-scale, multi-component systemsStrong knowledge of cloud-native architectures and containerization technologies (e.g., Kubernetes, Docker)Experience with distributed systems, microservices, and event-driven architecturesHands-on experience with DevOps practices, including CI/CD, automated testing, and infrastructure as codeExcellent communication skills, with a strong ability to collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams and vendorsStrong leadership and project management skills to drive cross-team alignment and vendor deliveryThis position requires a current and active Top Secret/SCI security clearance, issued by the US government. US 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:Experience in the space or aerospace industryExpertise in modular software design and middleware frameworks (e.g., AUTOSAR, DDS, ROS, or similar)Familiarity with space-related standards, such as ECSS or CCSDSKnowledge of high-performance computing, real-time systems, and security for mission-critical applications (Risk Management Framework)Familiarity with AI/ML technologies and their applications in space systemsWe 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)$120,800.00 - $181,100.00Pay Basis: AnnualLeadership CompetenciesOur 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 StrategicallyLead ChangeEngage with ImpactFoster InnovationDeliver ResultsWays We Reward Our EmployeesDuring 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 plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(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 hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe 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 CommitmentThe 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 or by email at You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.