Explosives and Shock Physics Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

3d•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. 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; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. The Mechanical Systems Department (MSD) offers a diverse range of capabilities that enable and support the effective implementation of technical and programmatic mission assurance activities on space systems, launch systems, and related systems. MSD staff support all program phases beginning with pre-contract evaluations, design and development activities followed by build, test, and pedigree review, launch, initialization, and operations events. MSD is the VSD source of expertise in moving mechanical assemblies (MMAs), ordnance-driven devices, other explosives applications and high-velocity impact analysis, separation systems and analyses, ball bearings, gears, valves, component mass properties, related technologies, and exploitation of our knowledge and tools in solving non-traditional and emerging problems. We are looking for an Explosives and Shock Physics Engineer (Engineering Specialist – Aeronautical & Mechanical Engineering). The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, California.

Requirements

Master's degree in physical sciences or engineering
6 or more years of applicable professional and/or educational experience in explosives, shock physics, explosive devices, separation and deployment systems, or other aerospace systems-related field
Understanding of the physics of shock and impact, ballistic penetration, dynamic behavior of materials, damage, and fracture
Experience in the use of explicit transient hydrocode and finite element analysis tools (e.g., CTH, LS-DYNA)
Understanding properties of energetic materials, detonation, deflagration, ignition methods, sensitivity, combustion, thermochemistry
Willing to travel approximately 10% (as required)
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.

Nice To Haves

PhD degree in a physical sciences or engineering including relevant coursework (e.g., conservation laws, continuum mechanics
Experience with the design, integration, and testing related to explosive/pyrotechnic devices and systems typical of launch vehicles, spacecraft, and missile systems
Knowledge of industry/government standards AIAA-S-113, RCC 319, MIL-DTL-23659, and SMC-S-016
Active TS/SCI security clearance

Responsibilities

Work closely with program offices, management, and government customers to resolve technical issues and ensure project success
Conduct engineering analysis, including hydrocode modeling and simulation, of explosively driven devices and hypervelocity impact scenarios
Participate in the development/refinement of analysis tools and techniques, including hydrocode analysis methodologies.
Evaluate separation and deployment systems and explosive devices for launch vehicle, spacecraft, and missile programs
Evaluate micrometeoroid and high velocity impact shielding designs for spacecraft
Prepare written reports and provide briefings to customers and other stakeholders
Occasionally travel to contractor sites to attend design reviews and witness hardware assembly and testing

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