2026 Materials Physicist - Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE)

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 Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory is seeking a well-qualified individual for the role of Materials Physicist – Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE). In this role, you will develop advanced non-destructive inspection (NDI) techniques for mission-critical launch vehicle and spacecraft components. You will ensure mission assurance through comprehensive data analysis and technical reviews, while conducting forward-looking research to address emerging materials characterization challenges for next-generation aerospace systems. This role involves direct collaboration with leading space agencies to advance the state-of-the-art in NDI science and materials physics.

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, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Develop and validate advanced NDI techniques for mission-critical launch vehicle and spacecraft components, including methods based on radiography, ultrasonics, eddy current, thermography, and other inspection modalities

• Conduct applied research in materials characterization and NDI science to solve emerging inspection challenges and enable next-generation aerospace systems

• Ensure mission assurance through expert review of inspection data, manufacturing documentation, and technical assessments for USSF, NRO, and commercial space programs

• Perform hands-on inspection of flight hardware and conduct field evaluations at manufacturing and launch sites

• Lead and support laboratory testing, failure investigations, and technical reviews to ensure structural integrity and mission success

• Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring 

• Strong written and oral communication skills 

• Must work well in a team environment 

• Possess organizational, time management and project management skills 

• Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needs 

• Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations 

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. degree from an accredited college/university program in Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months) 

• 0-1 years of industry work experience 

• Strong foundation in aerospace materials science, structural mechanics, and the physical principles underlying non-destructive inspection techniques

• Demonstrated proficiency in performing and interpreting results from one or more NDI techniques, including but not limited to: radiographic testing (RT), ultrasonic testing (UT), eddy current testing (ET), infrared thermography (IRT), and/or visual inspection methods

• Capability to learn new relevant science and engineering knowledge

• Willingness to travel occasionally and work off-business hours to support customer needs (approximately 20% travel or as required)

• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

• Transcripts

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: 

• Experience developing and qualifying non-destructive inspection (NDI) methodologies for composite, metallic, or advanced material systems, including technique validation, procedure documentation, and performance verification

• Measurement and signal processing skills using various programming languages, i.e., Python, C++, Labview, etc.

• Evidence of peer-reviewed journal publications in relevant technical areas

• Demonstrated use of machine learning based approaches to scientific data analysis

• Experience with the Intelligence Community

• Creative thinking and innovative approaches to problem solving

• A current and active 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 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.