About The Aerospace Corporation
What is The Aerospace Corporation?
The Aerospace Corporation is an independent, nonprofit organisation that operates the only federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) for the U.S. space enterprise. Established in 1960, the company provides objective technical analysis and leadership in research, design, development, acquisition, operations, and program management for government, civil, and commercial space customers.
With roughly 5,200 employees and over $50 billion in successful program deliveries, Aerospace has supported almost every major U.S. national security space program — from Project Mercury and Gemini through GPS, advanced satellite systems, and modern launch vehicles. The corporation operates advanced laboratories specialising in systems engineering, mission assurance, satellite anomaly resolution, and space cybersecurity.
Where will I work?
Headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, with a major campus in El Segundo, California, plus additional sites across the U.S. and at customer locations. Many roles are hybrid; classified work is largely onsite.
What is The Aerospace Corporation team like?
Around 5,200 highly technical professionals — physicists, aerospace engineers, software engineers, systems engineers, scientists, and program managers. As a nonprofit FFRDC, the culture skews mission-driven and academic, with a strong publishing and research track record.
Work-Life Balance
Full-time employees can choose either a standard eight-hour day or a 9/80 schedule with alternate Fridays off. The career re-entry program also explicitly highlights "Flexible work schedules, including a 9/80 workweek (every other Friday off)" as a core work/life-balance benefit.
Perks and Benefits
- 9/80 schedule with alternate Fridays off
- 401(k) with company-paid contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% (based on years of service)
- Unlimited sick time for exempt employees (80 hours/year for non-exempt)
- 4 weeks company-paid parental leave within first 12 months of birth/adoption/foster
- 24/7/365 back-up care for children and adults
- Medical, dental, vision
- Employee Assistance Program, wellness programs, on-site cafeteria, commuter/rideshare programs
- Education and continuing-development support