Launch Security Operations Specialist

Launch Ground and Environmental Safety Specialist (LGESS)

LOCATION: El Segundo, CA

JOB STATUS: Full-time

CLEARANCE: TS/SCI (Active)

CERTIFICATION: N/A

TRAVEL: As Needed

SALARY RANGE: $150k - $185k

Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Launch Ground & Environmental Safety Specialist (LGESS). The LGESS provides expert safety and Environmental Safety and Health (ESH) oversight for launch vehicle (LV) and satellite vehicle (SV) operations, ensuring full compliance with Space Force requirements and NRO policies. This role spans both technical launch system safety and facility-level environmental safety, supporting cradle-to-grave mission assurance.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, safety, environmental science, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum of 5-8 years of experience in launch, aerospace, or DoD safety and environmental compliance programs.
• Strong knowledge of system safety engineering principles, hazard analysis, and risk assessment methods.
• Experience reviewing and developing safety documentation such as Safety Assessment Reports (SARs), procedures, and hazard reports.
• Demonstrated experience supporting pre-launch or hazardous operations within Space Force or NRO environments.
• Familiarity with Space Range Safety requirements, including interface and coordination with Range Safety offices.
• Experience conducting inspections, audits, and ESH compliance monitoring for industrial or launch facilities.
• Working knowledge of OSHA, EPA, DoD, and Space Force ESH standards and regulations.
• Ability to review contractor safety programs and ensure compliance with LOTO, PPE, confined space, and other safety protocols.
• Skilled in managing Hot Work Permits and maintaining ESH documentation and records.
• Experience supporting or leading accident and incident investigations, including root cause and corrective action development.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to brief leadership and contribute to safety and mission readiness reviews.
• Proven ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including government, contractor, and range safety personnel.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and safety management systems for documentation and reporting.
• U.S. citizenship and an active TS/SCI clearance

RESPONSIBILITIES

• LV/SV Safety & Environmental Support:
  • Evaluate program safety documentation (e.g., SARs, procedures, hazard reports).
  • Conduct system safety engineering reviews, inspections, and hazard walk-downs.
  • Support pre-launch hazardous operations and interface with Space Range Safety offices.
  • Investigate incidents/near misses and support corrective action planning.
  • Attend and contribute to safety-focused mission meetings and readiness reviews.
• Ground Operations Safety & ESH Support:
  • Conduct fire inspections, ESH walk-downs, and compliance monitoring.
  • Perform safety reviews of contractor safety programs (e.g., LOTO, PPE, confined space).
  • Issue and audit Hot Work Permits; manage ESH documentation and libraries.
  • Support and coordinate with AF base inspections (ESOCAMP, SPCC, etc.).
  • Lead or support accident investigations and health hazard assessments.
  • Provide quarterly ESH program updates and participate in safety committees.