Chief Data Officer

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.

Job Summary

Aerospace is seeking an innovative and strategic Chief Data Officer (CDO) to lead the organization’s data transformation initiatives with a focus on security, compliance, and innovation. Reporting to the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), the CDO will align data strategies with enterprise cybersecurity and data protection priorities, ensuring data transformation and data storage efforts are secure, sustainable, and value-driven.

The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader with a deep understanding of data technologies, data security and strategy, and a strong commitment to safeguarding organizational assets in an evolving threat landscape.

The CISO organization is responsible for Aerospace Corporation’s enterprise cybersecurity and compliance. As such, the CISO team protects Aerospace and customer information by applying cutting edge security technologies and collaborating with highly talented and dedicated cybersecurity experts within the organization. The CISO team’s key focus areas include Cybersecurity Strategy and Governance, Risk Management, Regulatory Compliance, Incident Response and Recovery and Threat Monitoring.

Work Model

This position will be a hybrid work model and offer partially remote with some onsite work required in, Colorado Springs, CO or Chantilly, VA, as the business needs allow.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Data Strategy Development: Develop and execute a secure and innovative data strategy that enhances business processes, improves customer experience, and drives growth.
• Data Strategy & Governance: Establish and oversee data-driven strategies to harness insights for decision-making while adhering to data protection regulations and standards.
• Collaboration & Leadership: Partner with the CISO to ensure data initiatives integrate cybersecurity and data privacy measures. Work closely with cross-functional teams to promote data adoption while mitigating risk.
• Performance Metrics: Define KPIs and track the performance and ROI of data initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
• Technology Integration: Identify and implement cutting-edge technologies, platforms, and solutions to support organizational goals, ensuring alignment with cybersecurity frameworks.
• Risk Management: Work in conjunction with the CISO to assess and manage data risks, ensuring compliance with regulatory and industry-specific cybersecurity requirements.

What You Need to be Successful – Director, Chief Data Officer

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Information Systems/Technology or Computer Science or equivalent work or education related experience
• 10-12 years of experience in enterprise data security and transformation
• Certified in CISSP, CISA, CISM, CDPSE or DataSys+
• Extensive knowledge of data technologies, trends, and strategies
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive data transformation initiatives across the enterprise
• Understanding and ability to apply organization audit and compliance efforts as they relate to data security efforts such as ISO27x series, NIST SP800-53/171, CMMC and various privacy laws
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills
• Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site/domestically
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a Secret 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:

• Masters degree in Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Information Systems/Technology or Computer Science or equivalent work or education related experience
• Hold multiple certifications of CISSP, CISA, CISM, CDPSE or DataSys+
• 5 years as a previous Chief Data Officer
• 10+ years of experience in data transformation, strategy, or technology leadership roles, with a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles.
• Proven track record of driving data innovation while maintaining a secure operating environment
• Experience working in Federally regulated organizations.

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)

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 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.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. 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 peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.