Software Systems Architect at The Aerospace Corporation — El Segundo, CA

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 Doing

• Architect and oversee the delivery of highly scalable, fault-tolerant, and secure systems
• Define and enforce architectural standards, ensuring that solutions meet performance, security, and scalability requirements
• Collaborate with product managers, engineers, and external vendors to develop technical roadmaps and timelines
• Lead technical reviews and design discussions with multiple vendors to ensure system integration aligns with overall project objectives
• Establish and implement middleware and modular design frameworks (e.g., AUTOSAR, DDS, ROS) to support a modular software ecosystem
• Develop and maintain architectural blueprints and documentation for all systems and components
• Ensure 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 followed
• Collaborate on system testing, validation, and verification with teams to ensure a smooth performance of systems
• Act as a point of escalation for complex technical challenges, working closely with vendors to troubleshoot and resolve issues

What 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 field
• 8 or more years of experience in software architecture, system design, and systems integration
• Proven experience working with vendors to deliver large-scale, multi-component systems
• Strong knowledge of cloud-native architectures and containerization technologies (e.g., Kubernetes, Docker)
• Experience with distributed systems, microservices, and event-driven architectures
• Hands-on experience with DevOps practices, including CI/CD, automated testing, and infrastructure as code
• Excellent communication skills, with a strong ability to collaborate across multi-disciplinary teams and vendors
• Strong leadership and project management skills to drive cross-team alignment and vendor delivery
• This 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 industry
• Expertise in modular software design and middleware frameworks (e.g., AUTOSAR, DDS, ROS, or similar)
• Familiarity with space-related standards, such as ECSS or CCSDS
• Knowledge 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 systems

(Min - Max)

$120,800.00 - $181,100.00

Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

• 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

Equal Opportunity Commitment