2026 Senior Plasma Science Engineer

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 ESD studies, we can explore a wide range of space-related plasma-material interaction and surface charging topics. In support of flight programs, the section also investigates other plasma-adjacent phenomena like electric propulsion, multipactor breakdown, and unique forms of plasma-material interaction. We are looking for a Plasma Science Engineer (Sr. Member of Technical Staff).

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

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:  

• PhD degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months) 
• 0-1 year of industry work experience
• Experience in a research or manufacturing environment
• Working knowledge of physics and testing of electrostatic discharge or plasma-material interaction
• Working knowledge of electrical and data acquisitions systems
• 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. 
• Transcripts.

How You Can Stand Out   

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

• Experience with mechanical CAD design and analysis software
• Experience with maintaining and troubleshooting NI LabVIEW programs, DAQ systems, and PLC programming
• Experience with vacuum systems, compressed gases, and cryogenics
• Experience working in and maintaining a high vacuum test facility

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.