Mission Planning and Optimization Engineer
The Aerospace CorporationEl Segundo, CA
Posted May 28, 2026
129000 - 193500 USD
Full Time
About the Company
The Aerospace Corporation is a leading architect for the nation’s space programs, advancing capabilities that outpace threats to the country’s national security while nurturing innovative technologies to further a new era of space commercialization and exploration. Aerospace’s national workforce of more than 4,600 employees provides objective technical expertise and thought leadership to solve the hardest problems in space and assure mission success for space systems and space vehicles. Our greatest asset is the technical expertise of our people. Since 1960, our highly skilled technical people have focused on ensuring the success of every mission and developing the most effective and economic space-related hardware and software in the world. Our insight and involvement spanning all facets of space systems has significantly reduced the risk of launch failure and increased both satellite endurance and performance.
Job Description
The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a Mission Planning and Optimization Engineer to join their Enterprise Effects Division (EED). As a technical expert, the selected candidate will tackle complex optimization and mission planning challenges, requiring expertise in areas such as trajectory optimization, tree search algorithms, and orbital mechanics. The role combines technical depth with strong communication abilities to influence stakeholders and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
Requirements
- Serve as a technical representative and build strategic relationships with program offices
- Perform and lead complex optimization analysis for time-dependent Traveling Salesman and Facility Location Problems
- Design and optimize spacecraft maneuvers for orbit transfer, station keeping, disposal, and reentry events
- Evaluate contested space mission applications and develop resilient Concepts of Operations (CONOPS) and Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs)
- Develop innovative flight dynamics tools and algorithms that expand the department's analytical capabilities
- Mentor junior staff and foster knowledge sharing across multidisciplinary teams
Benefits
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
- 401(k) Plan
- Flexible spending accounts
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
- Relocation assistance
- Professional growth and development programs
- Education assistance programs
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect