The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nations 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, youll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. Job Summary The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise. PSLs impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSLs exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise. The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory is seeing a well-qualified individual for the role of Materials Physics and Evaluation Scientist. As the Research Scientist Materials Science or a Senior Scientist Materials Science, you will lead and participate in research in the areas of materials physics, non-destructive evaluation, and measurement science with direct application to materials and structures for launch vehicles and spacecrafts. You will also support various space agencies in evaluating critical components using various nondestructive evaluation techniques. Work Model This is an on-site position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work. What Youll Be Doing Conduct research in the areas of materials physics, non-destructive evaluation, and measurement science with direct application to the space domain Develop innovative methods to evaluate integrity of space materials and structures with respect to various properties including, mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, etc. Support laboratory and field testing for failure investigations Support hardware/document reviews to assess risk based on manufacturing and material non-conformances Write proposals for both internal and external funding sources Contribute directly to mission assurance of launch vehicles and spacecraft programs under the USSF and NRO or other space programs What You Need to be Successful Minimum requirements for the Research Scientist Materials Science A Ph.D. degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Engineering or related fields 8 or more years of professional industry experience Strong knowledge of physics and engineering in materials and associated lab experience Demonstrated hands-on problem-solving skills using a variety of material characterization tools, such as Radiography, Ultrasonic Testing, Eddy Current Testing, Thermography, etc. Signal processing skills using various programming languages, such as Python, C++, Labview, etc. Available to travel on short notice (approximately 20% or as required) 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. In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Senior Scientist Materials Science include 12 or more years of professional industry experience Evidence of peer-reviewed journal publications in relevant technical areas Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present methods and results effectively in briefings, formal reports, and informal communications Excellent project management and team leadership skills and experience How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: ASNT certifications in one or more NDT methods Experience with the Intelligence Community A current and active Secret or TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. We offer a competitive compensation package where youll 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) N/A Pay Basis: Annual 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 otherthe 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 youre 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. Right Place The Aerospace Corporation has over 26 locations nationwide, which allows us to build a workforce that will nurture the best ideas, and generate the most novel innovations and solutions to our nations toughest space enterprise challenges. Right Path Aerospace covers all stages of the space lifecycle, from concept to operations. We believe our people are our most valuable resource and thats why we propel our employees forward in their careers through ongoing education, training, and professional development. Right Purpose We can all serve a mission much greater than ourselves, and at Aerospace that is exactly what we do. By hiring the industrys most preeminent scientists and engineers, Aerospace advances emerging technologies that protect some of the most critical missions on Earth and above it. Return to the Aerospace Careers site. Aerospace employees working in organizations with technical responsibilities are required to obtain a Security Clearance. U.S. citizenship is required for those positions.