Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Systems Engineer
Greenbelt, MDAll locationsGreenbelt, MDGoddard SFC, MD On-site
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About the role
The Aerospace Corporation is looking for a Systems Engineer (Project Engineer – Systems Engineering) . In this role, you will support NASA’s Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) Program within the Commercialization, Innovation, and Synergies (CIS) Office at NASA Headquarters. You will provide independent systems engineering, architecture analysis, acquisition support, and strategic technical guidance across SCaN commercialization campaigns, early-phase studies, and stakeholder integration activities. You will work directly with NASA civil servants, industry partners, and international stakeholders to inform future communications and navigation architectures spanning lunar, cislunar, and deep space missions. This position supports a high-visibility HQ Task Order and requires strong technical judgment, clear communication skills, and the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, mission-focused environment. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at Goddard Spaceflight Center, Greenbelt, MD.
What you'll bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
- 6 or more years of professional experience in systems engineering, space communications, navigation systems, mission operations, or related technical fields.
- Experience with space communication and/or navigation systems, such as satellite ground station operation, RF/optical link budgets development, communication system interface definition, satellite communication CONOPS definition, precision navigation and timing, global navigation satellite systems.
- Experience supporting NASA, DoD, or comparable government space or communications programs.
- Demonstrated application of systems engineering processes across the lifecycle, including requirements development, architecture definition, trade studies, and technical evaluations.
- Prior involvement in NASA, government, or FFRDC-supported programs related to SCaN, space communications, navigation, or exploration architectures.
- Demonstrated technical leadership in architecture trades, acquisition support, or complex systems engineering efforts.
- Experience working with commercial partners, international collaborators, or cross-agency stakeholders.
- Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts and recommendations to senior technical and programmatic leadership.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and with diverse stakeholders.
- Willingness to travel occasionally (approximately 10–20%).