Battery Engineer
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. The Energy Technology Department (ETD) within PSL conducts applied research in energy technology in support of space power systems, developing new tools and capabilities for characterization, evaluation, and assessment in support of acquisition of current and next generation energy storage and energy generation technology for national security space customers. As a Battery Engineer/Scientist within PSL’s Energy Technology Department (ETD), you will contribute to the development of new tools, capabilities, and prototypes for evaluating and analyzing battery and energy storage technologies for spacecraft applications. You will conduct experiments, perform data analysis and modeling, and provide technical assessments for next generation spacecraft energy storage technologies for national security space customers. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.
Requirements
- Ph.D. degree from an accredited college/university program in material science, electrochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, or related STEM field (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
- 0-1 year industry experience
- Demonstrated knowledge or experience in battery/energy storage research, testing, or characterization
- Strong foundation in electrochemistry principles, materials science, and/or energy storage systems
- Hands-on experience with battery testing protocols, characterization techniques (e.g., XRD, SEM, EIS, cyclic voltammetry), or data interpretation
- Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams and communicate technical concepts effectively
- Willing to travel approx. 10-20% (as required)
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals or conference presentations related to batteries or electrochemical systems
- Experience with data analysis, computational modeling, and programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R) for battery performance analysis or materials simulation
- Experience with lithium-ion battery performance evaluation, degradation analysis, or failure investigation
- Familiarity with space systems, requirements development, or assembly, integration, and test (AI&T) processes
- Experience presenting technical findings to diverse audiences
- Leadership experience through mentoring, teaching, or leading collaborative projects
Responsibilities
- Support R&D projects focused on battery and energy storage technologies for spacecraft and launch vehicle applications, including conducting experiments, analyzing data, and documenting results
- Perform battery testing, characterization, and data analysis to evaluate performance, degradation, and failure modes of lithium-ion and other energy storage systems
- Apply data analysis, modeling, and programming tools to support battery performance predictions and materials analysis
- Assist in failure analysis and anomaly investigations, performing physical evaluations of battery materials and components
- Collaborate with senior scientists, engineers, and cross-functional teams to design experiments and contribute to technical assessments
- Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate findings to project teams and customers
- Support customer interactions and participate in meetings with program offices and government stakeholders
- Contribute to the development of future spacecraft battery technology roadmaps and support the transition of new energy storage technologies
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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
