Specialized Embedded Engineer

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.
At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.
The Embedded and Specialized Computing Department is seeking an Embedded Hardware Engineer passionate about building innovative hardware and software prototypes with a focus on rapid prototyping, spacecraft security, or accelerated computing.
Candidates with curiosity about any one of these specialties are encouraged to apply.
These prototypes and the associated lessons learned are used to make recommendations for government missions.
Example projects include design of custom single-board processing payloads, cryptographic integration for small satellites, optimization of artificial intelligence toolchains for embedded use cases, and evaluation of novel architectures for customer missions.
Work Model This position is a hybrid work model and can work partially remotely with some onsite work required in El Segundo, CA or Chantilly, VA.
What You’ll Be Doing Implement specialized embedded compute products focused on accelerated computing, spacecraft security, or sensors for satellite applications.
Perform research, prototyping, and hands-on development to tackle space enterprise challenges.
Work alongside junior staff to mentor and review work.
Propose innovative research efforts to advance the department's product and knowledge lines.
Advise on new or changing strategic imperatives for the department based on commercial technology shifts.
This position can be filled as a Specialized Embedded Engineer - Sr.
Member of Technical Staff (Sr.
MTS) or Engineering Specialist.
What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements for Specialized Embedded Engineer - Sr.
MTS: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university in electrical engineering, computer science, or another related field.
5 or more years of relevant experience in software programming, embedded systems, and/or hardware design.
Knowledge of two or more of the following languages: Python, C, C++, JavaScript, Java, Go, Rust, Verilog, or VHDL.
Strong experience in at least one embedded specialization: embedded software, HDL logic design, PCB design, embedded AI/ML, or embedded security.
Experience with laboratory tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, power supplies, and multimeters.
Ability to obtain a security clearance issued by the U.
S.
government.
U.
S.
citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
Minimum Requirements for Specialized Embedded Engineer - Engineering Specialist: All of the above requirements for Sr.
MTS.
8 or more years of relevant experience in software programming, embedded systems, and/or hardware design.
How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Understanding of real-time, embedded, size and power constrained systems.
Linux system bring-up a plus, e.
g.
, U-Boot and Linux customization on ARM and RISC-V.
FPGA Development and HDL (Verilog, VHDL) experience with a focus of HDL architecture.
Experience designing custom Printed Circuit Boards (PCB) for processor or SoC integration on flight payloads.
Experience with hardware bring-up: validating power configuration, clock metrics, and data transfer.
Working knowledge of firmware development (baremetal or RTS) on Arm Cortex-M/R/A microcontrollers or SoCs.
Experience with Artificial Intelligence with constrained resources, e.
g.
use of quantization in neural network applications.
Working knowledge of typical hardware interfaces: I2C, SPI, GPIO, UART, etc.
Working knowledge of typical subsystems (e.
g.
, eMMc, raw NAND, etc.
) and associated system level software integration.
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 - Mid - Max) $71,000 - $121,300 - $171,600 Pay Basis: Annual 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 diverse 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 Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.
We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions.
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 310.
336.
5432 or by email at ieo.
mailbox@aero.
org.
You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.