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.
Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems.
The Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section experimentally studies low-temperature plasma space technologies. This includes performing experiments to resolve flight anomalies as well as characterizing commercial plasma devices using our extensive plasma physics expertise. With a range of test facilities at our disposal, including several equipped for firing high-power electric thrusters, we can explore a wide range of electric propulsion topics. In support of flight programs, the section also investigates other plasma-adjacent phenomena like electrostatic discharge, multipactor breakdown, and unique forms of plasma-material interaction. We are looking for a Senior Electric Propulsion Engineer (Sr. Member of Technical Staff / Research Scientist) .
Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour
The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, California.
What You’ll Be Doing
Performing technical assessment, research and development, risk mitigation, and anomaly investigation and resolution through laboratory experimentation and analysis
Directly supporting scientists and engineers of the EP&PS section in this function as well as interfacing as needed with other internal support organizations
Exercising a wide range of hands-on laboratory and research skills
Designing, fabricating, instrumenting, and troubleshooting of new experiments as well as maintenance of existing experiments
Developing capabilities and readiness for the EP&PS test infrastructure
Adapting to new duties, responsibility, and activities are needed by the customer
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for the Sr MTS position include:
Master’s degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or physics
4+ years of experience in a research environment
2+ years of experience in the field of electric propulsion or a relevant plasma science
Working knowledge of physics and testing of electric propulsion devices
Working knowledge of physics of electrostatic discharge or plasma-material interaction
Working knowledge of power electronics and data acquisitions systems
Experience with vacuum systems, compressed gases, and cryogenics
This position requires the 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.
In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Research Scientist position include:
PhD degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or physics
4+ years of experience in the field of electric propulsion or a relevant plasma science
2+ years of postgraduate research experience
How You Can Stand Out
It would be…