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Space Exploration Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Join us to play a pivotal role in advancing space exploration and technology. *** Please note that our job openings are dynamic and can open or close quickly (much faster than we can publish). If you ...

Join us to play a pivotal role in advancing space exploration and technology. *** Please note that our job openings are dynamic and can open or close quickly (much faster than we can publish). If you ...

Join us to play a pivotal role in advancing space exploration and technology. *** Please note that our job openings are dynamic and can open or close quickly (much faster than we can publish). If you ...

Program Summary KBR's Exploration & Logistics (E&L) business unit delivers mission-critical solutions supporting global defense, federal civilian, logistics, engineering, and space exploration ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$173K - $205K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer** to join our team and contribute to the development of software solutions for space exploration and satellite systems. In this role, you will design, implement, and ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer** to join our team and contribute to the development of software solutions for space exploration and satellite systems. In this role, you will design, implement, and ...

Space Systems Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$178K - $211K/yr

Space Systems Software Engineer** to join our team and contribute to the development of software solutions for space exploration and satellite systems. In this role, you will design, implement, and ...

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Space Exploration information

What is the difference between Space Exploration vs Satellite Technician?

AspectSpace ExplorationSatellite Technician
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, specialized training in aerospace or astrophysicsTechnical diploma or associate degree in electronics or telecommunications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, spacecraft, space agencies, remote field sitesSatellite ground stations, repair facilities, telecommunications companies
Employer & Industry UsageNASA, SpaceX, aerospace firmsTelecom companies, satellite service providers

Space Exploration involves designing, developing, and conducting missions to explore outer space, often requiring advanced degrees and working in research or space agency environments. Satellite Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing satellites, typically working in ground stations or repair facilities with technical certifications. While both roles are in the aerospace industry, they differ in scope, skills, and work settings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in space exploration roles?

Professionals in space exploration often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, working within strict safety and regulatory standards, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams that may include engineers, scientists, and mission specialists. The work environment can be highly dynamic, with tight project deadlines and the need for meticulous attention to detail. Additionally, roles may require problem-solving in high-pressure situations, especially when supporting live missions or troubleshooting unexpected issues. These challenges are balanced by the excitement of contributing to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career in space exploration, and why are they important?

To thrive in space exploration, you typically need a strong background in STEM fields, such as engineering, physics, or astronomy, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with specialized tools like spacecraft systems, robotics, simulation software, and, for some roles, pilot or technical certifications is essential. Collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for working in multidisciplinary teams and handling the unique challenges of space missions. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, innovative, and effective contributions to complex space projects and missions.

What is space exploration?

Space exploration is the investigation and study of outer space through the use of astronomy, robotic spacecraft, and human spaceflights. It aims to increase our understanding of the universe, including planets, stars, and other celestial bodies beyond Earth. Space exploration has led to numerous scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and has inspired innovations that benefit life on Earth. Agencies like NASA, ESA, and private companies such as SpaceX are actively involved in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Space Exploration jobs in Virginia? For Space Exploration jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Space Exploration jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Space Exploration jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Space Exploration job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Space Enterprise Optimization Specialist

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

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 Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace's strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The divisionleveragesa broad array of engineering disciplines against awide-rangingand dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities.

The Space Enterprise Design and Optimization Department (SEDOD) is in EED's Enterprise Design Subdivision (EDS). We bring to bearexpertisein a wide variety of fields to tackle tough problems and explore novel ideas, focusing on the performance modeling, analysis, and optimization of orbits, mission architectures, and acquisition portfolios to inform the future of the national space enterprise.

As part of SEDOD and EDS, anEngineering Specialist(Engineering Integration-Modeling and Simulation Engineering) will employ and develop sophisticated simulation tools to perform space and ground design, optimization, and analysis in support of architecture concept trade studies, requirements verification, analyses-of-alternatives, and performance modeling. They will act as a technical expert for a portfolio of high-impact projects, in addition to working on teams and collaborating with other analysts to expand their domain knowledge.

Work Model

This is a full-time position based inEl Segundo, CA;Chantilly, VA;or Colorado Springs, CO, offering an in-person work model that combines 4 or more regular onsite workdays per week and remote flexibility as the business needs allow.

WhatYou'llBe Doing

  • Servingas key technicalexpertand point of contactfor departmentprojectsin the area ofspace architecture design and optimization,trade space exploration, and vehicle design

  • 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 presentingtimelyand technicallyaccuratepresentations and reports that clearly communicate analysis results and provide recommended solutions to technical leads, management, and customers

  • Building andmaintaininga strong baseof customers and collaborators for the department through effective working relationships with cross-organization partners, government customers, and contractor teammates

  • Supporting department growth by technical mentoring of junior staff members in one or more department capability areas

  • Occasional travel to support customer efforts

What You Need to be Successful

MinimumRequirements for theEngineering Specialist

  • B.S. degree in aerospace, astronautical, or mechanical engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field of science or engineering

  • 6 or moreyears of relevant and progressive professional or academic experience

  • Expertiseinone or more of the following: optimization techniques, satellite constellation design,orbital mechanics, mathematics related to satellite access geometry, or space vehicle design

  • Experience with modeling and simulation tools in support of architecture assessment, analysis of alternatives,constellation designand optimization,orbital analysis,network design,orspacesecurity and defense

  • Significant history of consistent contribution to multiple substantial technical analytical or development projects through their successful fruition

  • A history that shows personal accountability, a willingness to learn and self-correct, and an ability to adapt to changing customer expectations

  • Knowledge of Python, C, C++, MATLAB, or another programming language

  • This position requires the ability to obtain andmaintaina Top Secret/SCI security clearance with CI polygraph, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship isrequiredto obtain a security clearance.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • A graduate degree in aerospace, astronautical, or mechanical engineering, operations research, mathematics, or a related field of science or engineering

  • Work history in one of these specific national security space or intelligence mission areas: geo-spatial intelligence, signals intelligence,missile warning/tracking/defense,space surveillance, space protection, or satellite communication networks supporting defense or intelligence capabilities

  • Extensive knowledge of Intelligence Community or U.S. Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios

  • Current TS/SCI access with current CI polygraph

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)

$117,300.00 - $175,900.00Pay 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 equalopportunity 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,geneticinformation, 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 emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.