2026 Composites Materials Scientist

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

9d•Onsite

About The Position

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. As the Composites Materials Scientist, you will conduct and lead R&D, failure analysis and anomaly resolution, and applied research in polymers/composites. The ideal candidate will provide subject matter expertise in materials processing, testing, and characterizations for structural composite materials for space applications, and is expected to contribute meaningfully and directly to research and program support activities in these areas. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

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
Ph.D. degree from an accredited college/university program in Materials Science, Chemistry, Aerospace Engineering or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
0-1 year of industry work experience
Some experience in composites and processing of structures, as well as the use of chemical, thermal and mechanical property test evaluation tools
Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately 10% (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 required

Nice To Haves

Exhibit high level of innovation, creativeness, and initiative
Hands on experience with using an autoclave, Instron and thermal analysis equipment
Hands on experience with characterization of structure-property relationship of high-performance CFRP composite materials and effect of processing conditions on resulting thermal and mechanical properties
Records on publishing technical papers and delivering conference presentations
Technical subject matter expertise in the following research topic areas include, but are not limited to: ceramics/metals, polymers/composites, and non-destructive evaluation
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.

Responsibilities

Leading and working alongside multi-disciplinary teams to perform numerous in depth structural materials-related root cause investigations, specifically focused on composite materials and bonding issues
Developing and optimizing manufacturing processes for composite materials, including lay-up, curing and consolidation techniques
Investigate adhesive properties utilizing various thermal analysis techniques, including DMA, DSC, TMA, Rheometer, etc.
Assessing technology gaps and provide direction for process development
Supporting onsite reviews in order to assesses risk based on manufacturing and material non-conformances
Writing proposals, for both internal and external funding sources
Directing research on the development of novel composite material applications as well as science based investigations pushing forward materials and processing technologies for space applications
Manufacturing demonstration articles, and generate intellectual property
Presenting and publishing technical findings as a subject matter expert for impacted hardware to govt., contractor and customer teams along with proposed processing recommendations and resolution pathways for remediation
Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed

Benefits

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