New

Communications Hardware Test Engineering Lead

The Aerospace Corporation
paid holidays, sick time, 401(k), relocation assistance
United States, Texas, Houston
2101 Nasa Pkwy (Show on map)
Dec 22, 2025
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 Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. VSD partners closely with the Human Exploration and Space Flight (HESF) Division in support of the NASA customer across all aspects of human space flight. We are looking for a Communications Hardware Test Lead (Project Engineer/Sr. Project Engineer - Communication Systems Engineering) to support the test and verification of RF systems across NASA's human spaceflight portfolio. In this role you will support the NASA Johnson Space Center VIPER (Vehicle Integrated Performance, Environments and Resources) team with technical expertise and leadership in the design, development, and execution of tests for radio frequency devices and systems, ensuring they meet performance specs, analyzing data, troubleshooting issues, and creating test procedures involving wireless protocols like CCSDS. You will also provide operational support during missions and will be responsible for ensuring reliable communication between the spacecraft and ground systems throughout its lifecycle, including launch, on-orbit operations, and landing. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, TX. What You'll Be Doing Develop and execute tests of RF devices and systems, including signal analysis devices like VNAs and analyzing data to troubleshoot issues Lead and develop a team of VIPER engineers in managing RF communication systems and providing real-time on-orbit support Perform/Oversee integrated analysis and testing of spacecraft communications systems, hardware, and software in relation to other systems, operational environment, and required operational capabilities Review and assess communication requirements and Verification & Validation (V&V) plans for Communications System impacts, including integrated testing, analysis, and decomposition Communicate spacecraft communications subsystem architectures and assess impacts of changes to requirements, V&V, integrated testing, designs, and program decisions. Identify, communicate, track, and mitigate Communications subsystem risks Lead and oversee component and subsystem-level trade studies to inform decision-making Maintain productive working relationships with cross-program technical teams, including engineering, safety, flight operations, crew office, and module providers Present to appropriate boards, panels, or technical/status meetings as needed What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements for the Project Engineer - Communication Systems Engineering: Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline 6+ years of experience with communications hardware systems, including design and testing tools Expertise in communications hardware testing, integration, and environmental testing protocols Experience working with various space-to-ground communications protocols, such as CCSDS Familiarity with avionic system safety, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and fault tolerance analysis Willing to travel domestically as needed In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Sr. Project Engineer - Communication Systems Engineering include: 10+ years of experience in communications hardware systems Experience developing and briefing decision packages and complex information in a succinct and polished manner Experience working on space station or spacecraft communications systems How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering or closely related field Working knowledge of NASA standard practices and requirement Experience with NASA flight operations and procedures Knowledge of complex Communication Systems Integration and Test & Verification (T&V) Expertise in NASA Human Spaceflight topics and safety matters Experience with spacecraft communications systems in both a testing and operational scenarios 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 A 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 emailat peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.