Cloud Systems Project Leader 

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.

Information Systems and Cyber Division (ISCD) staff couple the latest in information system technologies, such as elastic compute clouds, containerization, microservices, real-time operating systems, and visualization frameworks, with expertise in cyber security, software architecture, software engineering, data science, Artificial Intelligence, process improvement, and software development to deliver responsive, resilient, high-performance software intensive systems to our Intelligence Community, DoD, and civilian customers. 

 

The Cloud Platforms & Architectures Department provides guidance and solutions for developing, deploying, and managing highly secure, available, resilient, and scalable software systems utilizing cloud technologies and cloud-native application architectures for our DoD, IC, and Civil Space customers. As the Cloud Systems Project Leader, you will lead and coordinate technical teams to deliver these solutions, serving as the primary point of contact for customers to ensure their needs are met. You will play a crucial role in fostering innovation and delivering results by leading change and operating strategically to guide your team through the complexities of cloud system implementation. Your technical expertise and leadership will directly contribute to our mission of keeping our nation at the forefront of space systems capabilities. 

 

Work Model 

  • Hybrid: This position will be a hybrid work model with at least 3 days/week onsite for either Chantilly, VA, or El Segundo, CA. 

 

What You’ll Be Doing 

  • Leading and coordinating technical teams in the delivery of cloud-based solutions, including architecture design, development, and implementation. 

  • Overseeing project execution, including identifying and resolving issues, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring effective communication among team members and stakeholders. 

  • Serving as the primary point of contact for customers, understanding their needs, and ensuring the team delivers solutions that meet their requirements. 

  • Guiding and mentoring junior technical staff, fostering their professional development and technical expertise. 

 

What You Need to be Successful 

Minimum Requirements: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field. 

  • Eight or more years of relevant professional experience in a software and/or cloud engineering environment. 

  • In-depth, hands-on experience in at least one of the following technical disciplines: 

  • Cloud Infrastructure (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, VMware, Linux) 
  • Cloud Platforms (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, Istio) 
  • Cloud-Native Application Development (e.g., CI/CD pipelines, Microservices) 
  • Cloud Security (e.g., IAM, Logging and Monitoring) 
  • Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with customers and team members. 

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 

  • This position requires an active TS/SCI security clearance which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. 

 

 

How You Can Stand Out 

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

  • Eight or more years of relevant professional experience in a systems engineering and/or program management environment. 

  • Hands-on experience designing, implementing, and operating complex cloud systems. 

  • Working knowledge of all layers of a cloud technology stack. 

  • Experience in leading cloud projects for DoD, IC, or Civil Space customers. 

  • A track record of successful project delivery and customer satisfaction. 

  • Strong leadership and mentorship skills. 

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)

$132,000 - $199,000

Pay Basis: Annual

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

  • 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

Organisation: 
The Aerospace Corporation