Technical Acquisition and Contracts Specialist

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 Systems Engineering Division (SED) provides unmatched experience in systems engineering to the U.S. government and tonumerouspublic and private agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, consortia, and commercial companies involved in the advanced application of space technology. From systems architecture development to system analysis and optimization, astrodynamics, orbital debris, navigation, failure analysis, mission assurance, cost and schedule assessment, and economic market analysis, SED exploits an incredibly broad array of engineering and business disciplines against a diverse and dynamic portfolio of programs and national challenges.The Acquisition Planning and Decision Analytics(APDA)Department is seeking aSeniorAcquisition andSystemsEngineerto join a diverse, innovative, and highly productive team ofacquisition and systems engineeringprofessionals.Thisgrowing,geographically distributeddepartment supports a wide range of customers in the National Security, Civil and Commercial, and International Space Communities.APDA applies deep technicalexpertiseand experience todeliver pre-acquisition and systems engineering planningexpertiseand products to form a sound basis for space, ground, and launch system program acquisition lifecycle activities.Work Model:This full-time position will belocatedonsite in any of Aerospace's campus locations (El Segundo, CA; Colorado Springs, CO;Chantilly, VA,).WhatYou'll- Atrustedtechnical programadvisor focused on solving some of the nation's most critical missions withcutting-edgesolutions that meet the future head-on.- Advise key stakeholders and government customers by conductingcradle-to-gravecontract support,risk management, and contractsupportactivitiesto communicatecontractadministration, compliance, and oversightactivities, best practices and lessonslearned.- Collaborate withgovernment program office customers, stakeholders, and colleagues to provide agile, responsive, and decisive advice on diverse and innovative contracting strategies.- Exercise independent judgment and discretion in project/program/portfolioplanning and resolving complex contract issues, focusing on clear communication and relationship management.- Developrecommendations for complex contractual matters,contracts strategy,vendorrelationship management,riskassessmentsand mitigation plans.- Support modernization ofcapabilitiesto bettermanage, integrate, and sharedataacross the subdivisionand ensure the implementation oftechnical and operationalbest practicesand lessons learned.- Host educational workshops, brown-bag lunch sessions, and training programs to promote knowledge sharing.- Develop and deliveraccurateandtimelyreports and presentations that clearly communicate results and solutions to support critical decisions.What You Need to be SuccessfulMinimumSenior Project Engineer:- Bachelor's degree- At least 12 years of relevant experience in space-relatedacquisition and systems engineering- Previousexperience leading highly technical project teams.- Requires contracts management understanding to support the Contract Lifecycle from proposal preparation and strategy through submittal, negotiations, execution, and closeout.- Experienced with Government (FAR / DFAR) contracting: Fixed Price (FP), Time & Material (T&M), Cost Plus Award Fee (CPAF), Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF), Level of Effort (LOE), Indefinite Delivery / Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contracts.- Experience withnon-FARbased instruments such as Other Transaction Agreements, Grants, and/or Cooperative Agreements.- Proven ability toestablishand maintain effective working relationships across corporate staff, peers, management, program offices, customers, and contractors.- Excellent communications skills, both written and oral.- Commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that promotes excellence and collaboration.- Willing to travel domestically up to 10%.- U.S citizenship isrequiredto obtain a security clearance.How You Can Stand OutIt would be impressive if you have one or more of these:- Bachelor's degree from an accredited program in Engineering orSTEM related field.- Advanced degreefrom an accredited programin Engineeringorlaw.- Contract Management certifications toincludeCertified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM), Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), and Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM).- Prior leadership or management experience, particularly in source selections andacquisition and systems engineeringprocesses.- Exceptional interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across all organizational levels.- Knowledge of government(e.g., DoD, NRO, NASA) acquisition and systems engineering policies and practices, space systems, and advanced space technologies.- Familiarity with systemsengineering andacquisitionconcepts.- Recognition as a subject matter expert through publications, presentations, or contributions to the professional community.- Certification inacquisition and/orcontracts managementrecognized professional societies (e.g.,INCOSE,DAU, NCMA, PMI).- Current DoD TS and/or SSBI/SCI Clearance.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)$151,300.00 - $226,900.00Pay Basis: AnnualLeadership CompetenciesOur 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 ResultsWays We Reward Our EmployeesDuring 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- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options- 401(k) Plan - Employees

Created: 2026-03-30