Systems Cost Analyst (Level2/Level3)
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.
Job Summary
The Systems Engineering Division (SED) provides unmatched experience in systems engineering to the U.S. government and to numerous public 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 Integrated Cost and Schedule Analysis Department (iCASA) is the corporate focal point for schedule/cost analysis, and related estimating methodologies. iCASA supports many customers throughout the National Security, civil government, commercial and international space communities. We collect lessons learned from a wide variety of programs to help develop better cost, schedule, and risk management techniques.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead interdisciplinary teams in ongoing research for cost/schedule analyses and coordinate interfaces with government customer and Aerospace program offices
- Support multiple programs and/or activities and frequently act as point-of-contact for cost/schedule activities
- Provide technical expertise based on cost estimating and analysis best practices (i.e. GAO)
- Analyze cost and technical data to assess credibility of government and industry cost estimates
- Specific responsibilities include support of Life Cycle Cost Analysis, Evaluation of Contractor Cost Activities, Cost as an Independent Variable (CAIV), Cost-Benefit/ Effectiveness Analyses, Program Performance Analyses, Cost/Schedule/Technical Risk Analysis, Risk Planning/ Mitigation, and Cost/Performance/ Design Trade Studies, and Portfolio Analysis for decision support
- Additional responsibilities include participation in the following: cost research, cost engineering, program technical baseline development; proposal evaluations, and model development for in-house cost and schedule tools
- Train junior department members and participate in knowledge transfer with peers
This position is available as Level 2 or Level 3*
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for Level 2:
- BS degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Operations Research, or related science field
- 8 years of relevant experience including knowledge of space and launch systems; ground systems knowledge highly desirable
- Experience in cost/financial management analysis and reporting
- Familiarity with industry cost models (True Planning, SEER) and standard cost methodologies
- Willing to travel domestically/internationally when required, approximately 10%
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. US citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
Minimum Requirements for Level 3:
- Meet Level 2 requirements
- 12 years relevant experience, including detailed experience with space, launch and ground systems acquisition
- Experience leading the development of cost estimates and assessments
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
- Advanced degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Operations Research, or related science field
- Experience with Earned Value Management, Program Planning, and Scheduling
- Source Selections/Evaluation Experience
- Experience with government cost accounting (DoD, NRO, NASA)
- Experience with concurrent engineering methods and tools
- Computer programming and modeling, especially for purposes of developing tools to estimate the cost of space, ground, and launch systems
- Teaching experience, especially in technical subjects
- Certification in cost estimating by a recognized professional society/educational organization (i.e., ICEAA or DAWIA)
- Current DoD TS and/or SSBI/SCI Clearance
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.