Director, Structures Department

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; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.

The Structures Department within VSD is the technical backbone behind the nation's most critical launch, spacecraft, and missile programs — supporting both launch vehicles/spacecraft for National Security missions, layered defense, Human Spaceflight, and in-space servicing assembly, and manufacturing; and beyond.

As Director, you'll lead ~50+ engineers and scientists spanning structural analysis, dynamics, and advanced technology development, driving mission assurance and innovation across the space and defense enterprise. This is a chance to shape the future of structural engineering — from AI/ML-accelerated analysis to hypersonics, extreme environments, and next-generation spacecraft structures.

• →Lead and grow a multidisciplinary team delivering structural design, analysis, and test solutions across launch vehicles, spacecraft, missile systems, and emerging missions
• →Own department strategy — staffing, budget, performance management, and technical direction across core capability areas: launch/space structures, thermostructures, engine structural integrity, and advanced concepts
• →Champion innovation — advancing AI/ML integration, GPU-accelerated analysis, physics-informed machine learning, and digital modernization of legacy tools and methods
• →Serve as authoritative technical voice on structural verification, risk assessment, and mission assurance for programs ranging from routine operations to high-risk, rapid-acquisition efforts
• →Build and sustain strong relationships with government and commercial customers, program offices, and cross-functional teams to expand influence and secure new business
• →Mentor engineering talent and cultivate a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning
• →Review and approve technical products, standards contributions, and customer-facing deliverables

This position is based in El Segundo, CA, with consideration for Chantilly, VA, and requires at least 4 days onsite.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Physics, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace structural or mechanical engineering
• Proven people management experience — hiring, mentoring, performance management
• Strong track record building relationships with government/aerospace customers and technical stakeholders
• Willingness to travel and work off-hours as needed (~10%)
• Active Top Secret clearance with ability to obtain and maintain an SCI, which is issued by the US government. US citizenship is required.

It would be impressive if you had one or more of these:

• Advanced degree in structural/solid mechanics or aerospace engineering
• Proven leadership across core structural disciplines: fracture mechanics & fatigue, composite failure analysis, bonded/bolted joints, additive manufacturing, probabilistic analysis, and coupled loads analysis
• Experience supporting high-priority mission areas: hypersonics, missile defense, human spaceflight, or on-orbit servicing (ISAM)
• Demonstrated success driving innovation — AI/ML applications, digital engineering, or advanced modeling techniques
• History of managing managers and senior technical staff
• Active engagement with universities, industry standards bodies, or technical partnerships
• Familiarity with governing standards (AIAA-S series, NASA-STD, SMC-S, CMH-17) 

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)

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  

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 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.

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity 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, 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 peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.