Manager, Fluid Systems

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.

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.

The Fluid Systems Section within the Fluid Mechanics Department in VSD is at the forefront of fluid mechanics research, innovatively merging advanced theoretical, computational. and experimental approaches to support launch, space, and reentry systems. We are currently seeking a talented Fluid Systems Manager (Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering) to provide leadership and technical direction to the Fluid Systems Section, driving interdisciplinary transformative solutions for state-of-the-art projects. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries in fluid mechanics, we would love to hear from you.

This position is located onsite in El Segundo, CA., or Cape Canaveral, FL., with preference for El Segundo

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Provide expert technical consultation and guidance to multidisciplinary teams, management, customers, and contractors on fluid-systems analysis, including tank thermodynamics, two-phase flow, and low-gravity fluid dynamics

• Lead technical teams in identifying, analyzing, and developing mitigation strategies for complex fluid-systems challenges across booster and upper stage applications

• Maintain cutting-edge expertise in emerging technologies and industry trends related to cryogenic propellant behavior and fluid dynamics

• Deliver high-quality technical products through independent analysis, rigorous review of contractor deliverables, and performance assessments

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve design, analysis, and test methodologies for evaluating launch vehicle fluid systems

• Drive innovation by identifying capability gaps and leading the development of advanced tools and analytical methods for fluid systems modeling

• Execute full-spectrum management responsibilities including workforce planning, budget management, performance evaluations, staff assignments, and administrative oversight

• Proactively identify and communicate technical needs, risks, findings, and recommendations to stakeholders with appropriate urgency and context

• Ensure timely delivery of mission-critical products that directly support customer decision-making and program milestones

• Foster collaborative partnerships with program offices, customers, and contractors through transparent communication and relationship management

• Champion continuous learning and professional growth through strategic mentoring, constructive feedback, challenging assignments, and formal development opportunities

• Build and sustain a high-performing team culture focused on technical excellence, innovation, and mission success

​What You Need to be Successful 

Minimum Requirements:

• Master’s degree from an accredited university program in aerospace, aeronautical, mechanical engineering, or related discipline

• 8 years of combined academic research and industry experience in fluid mechanics

• Willing to travel domestically and work off-hours as needed for launch activities

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

How You Can Stand Out 

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

• PhD degree in aerospace, aeronautical, mechanical engineering, or related discipline

• Graduate-level course work in hydraulics, pneumatics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mass transfer, free-surface flows, incompressible flows, and compressible flows

• Experience in fluid networks, liquid propulsion systems, cryogenics, and slosh analysis

• Experience in use of experimental methods, hardware, and instrumentation

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 [email protected] . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.