Launch Vehicle Mechanisms Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•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) team has 20-25 engineers responsible for providing technical mission assurance support to ensure the integrity and reliable operation of moving mechanical assemblies (MMAs) and explosive devices used during separation and deployment events of launch vehicles, space vehicles, and missile systems. We are looking for a Launch Vehicle Mechanisms Engineer (Senior Member of Technical Staff-Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering). The Launch Mechanisms Section is responsible for the evaluation of requirements, design, analysis, and testing of launch vehicle MMAs in accordance with industry standards. This section works closely and coordinates with other Aerospace technical disciplines, program offices, and contractors in support of our customer’s mission needs. This is a full-time position located onsite in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or physical sciences field
5 years of applicable professional experience in launch vehicle, space vehicle, or missile system program support in areas of physical sciences or engineering
Experience with designing, analyzing, testing, or manufacturing moving mechanical assemblies
Experience with CAD (SolidWorks or equivalent)
Experience with finite element analysis
Experience with Python and MATLAB
Willingness to occasionally travel and/or 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 U.S. government.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in an engineering or physical sciences field
Knowledge of moving mechanical assembly standards (AIAA-S-114A or NASA-STD-5017B) and environmental testing standards (SSC-S-016 or NASA GEVS)
Experience with multi-body dynamics analysis (ADAMS or equivalent)
Experience leading technical teams
Active TS/SCI security clearance

Responsibilities

Evaluate moving mechanical assemblies for launch vehicle, space vehicle, and missile system programs.
Review and assess designs, analysis results, test plans, command media, and applicable standards
Perform analyses and modeling of moving mechanical assemblies, deployment, and separation systems
Work closely with the department technical staff and management to resolve technical issues and assure mission success
Prepare and provide reports and charts in support of 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