Plasma Science Research Associate

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 focuses on experimentally studying electric propulsion and other low-temperature plasma space technologies. This includes performing experiments to resolve flight anomalies, as well as characterizing commercial EP devices using our extensive plasma physics expertise. With a range of test facilities at our disposal, including our world-class EP3 chamber, we are equipped to study not only low-power devices like electrosprays but also high-power (>10 kW) systems. In support of flight programs, the section also investigates other plasma-adjacent phenomena like electrostatic discharge (ESD), sputtering, multipactor breakdown, and other forms of plasma-material interaction. We are looking for a Plasma Science Research Associate (Research Associate III/IV).

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

• We perform technical assessment, research and development, risk mitigation, and anomaly investigation and resolution through laboratory experimentation and analysis
• You will directly support scientists and engineers of the Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section in this function as well as interface as needed with other internal support organizations
• Our technical work demands a broad hands-on skillset to achieve our goals, and your applied skills will be critical to the success of the projects performed by the section
• Your function will involve the design, fabrication, instrumentation, and troubleshooting of new experiments as well as maintenance of existing experiments
• You will play a critical role in the readiness of our electric propulsion and plasma science test infrastructure
• 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 

This position is available as Research Associate III or IV

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for the Research Associate III include:  

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline
• A minimum of (3) years of experience in an industry or research environment
• Fabrication skills with hand tools and basic machine tools
• Working knowledge of electronics and basic circuit design
• Working knowledge of data acquisitions systems including measurement hardware, sensors, wiring, and data acquisition software
• 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.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Research Associate IV include:  

• Master’s degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline
• A minimum of (6) years of experience in an industry or research environment.
• Experience with mechanical CAD and analysis software
• Experience with modifying and maintaining NI LabVIEW programs, DAQ systems, and PLC programming
• Precision fabrication experience and experience interfacing with machine shops
• Experience with vacuum systems

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Experience working in and maintaining a plasma science or electric propulsion laboratory
• Experience working with high purity low pressure flow gas flow systems

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.