Manager, Explosives Applications

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

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 ETG 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 Engineering Manager (Explosives Applications – Aeronautical & Mechanical Engineering).

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in physical sciences or engineering
Five or more years of increasingly responsible professional engineering/scientific experience
Experience with the design, integration, and testing related to explosive/pyrotechnic devices and systems typical of launch vehicles, missile systems, and spacecraft
Willingness and ability to travel occasionally to work locations or customer sites 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

Master’s or PhD degree in a STEM field including relevant coursework (e.g., conservation laws, continuum mechanics)
Understanding properties of energetic materials, detonation, deflagration, ignition methods, sensitivity, combustion, or thermochemistry
Understanding physics of shock and impact, ballistic penetration, dynamic behavior of materials, damage, or fracture
Experience with types of analyses to examine design alternatives, investigate failures, verify performance and/or check compliance with applicable specifications
Experience in the use of explicit transient hydrocode and finite element analysis tools (e.g., CTH, LS-DYNA)
Knowledge of AIAA-S-113, RCC 319, MIL-DTL-23659, SMC-S-016 standards
Current and active TS/SCI security clearance

Responsibilities

Plan and lead technical projects and evaluations for space, launch and missile systems and other customers related to separation and deployment systems, explosive devices, and hydrocode analysis
Identify, select, and assign engineering personnel, monitor quality of work, report progress, resolve significant technical issues, and assure project success
Cultivate and maintain strong and effective working relationships with government partners, contractors, and Aerospace organizations in the Engineering Technology Group and Program Offices
Develop and execute strategic planning to establish and improve the organization's technical capabilities, analysis tools, standards, and documentation
Set and manage expectations to inspire staff with technical excellence and product delivery
Conduct staff performance assessments and direct career development, training, and establish staffing needs to meet department goals
Participate in the development/refinement of analysis tools and techniques, including hydrocode analysis methodologies

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