Computer / Human Interface Project Manager

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 NASA customer across all aspects of human space flight. We are looking for a Computer / Human Interface Project Manager (Project Leader / Sr. Project Leader - Technical Project Management)  to support the on-going development of human / machine interfaces for crewed spacecraft. In this role, you will be responsible for the planning and execution of hardware build projects. As part of a project leadership team, you will be responsible for the timely delivery of specific project deliverables in accordance with project requirements (technical, cost & schedule, etc.). You will also lead and work with multi-functional, cross-organizational teams to design, build, test and operate complex displays, controls (stick, steering, switches, etc.), audio, video, lighting, laptops, etc., that involve how humans operate and monitor a vehicle. This role may also include managing of ground-based or airborne test systems. You will use your innovative problem-solving abilities as well as your strong team building and leadership skills to successfully deliver to the mission.

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

Manage multiple projects through all phases of development : Proposal, Concept, Requirements, Design, Build, Assembly, Integration and Test (AI&T), Delivery, Launch, Post Launch, etc.

Work with project teams to ensure work is performed in accordance with mission / project requirements, planned budgets, schedules, and program risk posture.

Manage roadblocks, workarounds and unexpected events on projects to maintain optimal technical, cost and schedule performance.

Create and maintain strong working relationships and lines of communication with both internal / external customers and other team member organizations.

Work with assigned teams to develop project cost and schedule plans for new business proposals; work with Aerospace estimating and contracts teams to ensure compliant submission of new business proposals.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements :

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related technical discipline

6+ years of increasingly responsible, related professional experience.

Experience working in a hardware engineering role.

Experience in team leadership, project management, project planning and / or project execution.

Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately 10% (as required)

This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

In addition to the requirements above, the minimum requirements for a Senior Project Leader are :

10+ years of increasingly responsible, related professional experience

Experience with Microsoft Project or other project management tools

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 Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or closely related field

Knowledge and understanding of procurement, property and business practices

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 :

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.