2026 Cyber Vulnerability Researcher

About the position 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. 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 Cyberspace Combat Department (CCD) resides within ISCD and focuses on critical cyber research, development, and rapid prototyping in the areas of Defensive Cyber Operations (DCO), Offensive Cyber Operations (OCO), Reverse Engineering, Exploit Development, and Spacecraft Security. We support a variety of customers including the Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC), the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and other civil customers (e.g. NASA) to resolve unique challenges in implementation and research. We are looking for a Junior Engineer to perform cyber vulnerability research on unique space related hardware and software products. Candidates should be familiar with satellite protocols and have experience working with space systems. Work Model This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, offering a hybrid work model that combines 4 regular onsite workdays and remote flexibility as the business needs allow.

Responsibilities

• Conduct cyber vulnerability research on satellites and space vehicles.
• Contribute to building a secure by design satellite.
• Directly contribute to cybersecurity development prototype efforts as well as perform cybersecurity engineering assistance to Aerospace Program Office customers.
• Submit proposals to research new lines of effort for space vehicle defense.
• Collaborate with other Aerospace departments and external organizations to develop new technical demonstrations and capabilities.

Requirements

• Master's degree in STEM or in Information Security/Technology, Computer Science, or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
• 0-1 year of industry experience
• Relevant experience related to cybersecurity, systems engineering, software development, embedded systems, or similar fields.
• Proficient in one or more programming languages including but not limited to C, C++, Java, Python, or Rust.
• Relevant experience with cryptography and network analysis
• Experience with satellite system design and technology.
• Experience using containerization technology such as Docker or Kubernetes.
• Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site approx. 20% of the time if 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.

Nice-to-haves

• PhD degree in STEM or in Information Security/Technology, Computer Science, or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
• Cybersecurity certifications (OSCP, GXPN, GREM, SEC+)
• Experience of various offensive cyber tools such as Kali, Metasploit, Ghidra, Burp Suite, and competitive (e.g. capture the flag) cyber experience.
• Expert with bash, shell, PowerShell, and basic scripting on Linux and Windows platforms.
• Relevant research related to satellite vulnerability
• Current and active TS/SCI clearance

Benefits

• 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

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