Optical Coatings Material Scientist

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. Job Summary 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 Materials Processing Department (MPD) in the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) within PSL conducts anomaly resolution, materials characterization, failure analysis, and applied research in materials processing, optical materials, thin films, and space environmental effects on materials for advanced space systems. MPD hosts an interdisciplinary team working across materials science, optics, and engineering to design, manufacture, and test optical materials and coatings for space applications and provide technical support to national security space programs in these areas. MPD is seeking an Optical Coatings Materials Scientist (Research Scientist / Sr. Scientist- Materials Science) to advance technical activities, conduct and lead program support and applied research, and work closely with SML management to define strategic priorities related to optical coatings and thin films. The ideal candidate will provide subject matter expertise in optical materials and coatings, coordinate and lead failure analyses and anomaly resolution, and create and lead effective technical teams while collaborating across disciplines. He/she will work closely with stakeholders of all levels to advance projects and strategic direction, develop new customers in our fast-paced environment, and contribute meaningfully and directly to research and program support activities. The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

Master’s degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related science or engineering discipline is required
A minimum of (8) years of increasingly responsible professional, industry, or academic experience in optical coatings and materials is required
Demonstrated expertise, research experience, and leadership with spacecraft disciplines in optical coatings, thin films, deposition technologies, and optical materials
Established record of peer-reviewed publications in the scientific community
Ability to write proposals to seek internal and external research funding in relevant technical areas
Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical issues, activities, and operations to staff and customers of all levels
Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment on multiple ongoing projects
Willing to travel as needed (~15%) to work locations or customer sites, domestically or internationally
This position requires the 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.
Ph.D. degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related science or engineering discipline is required
A minimum of (12) years of increasingly responsible professional, industry, or academic experience in optical coatings and materials for space systems is required
Established technical and scientific record of expertise and experience within the NSS customer base related to optical coatings and materials for space applications
Demonstrated experience leading technical teams to solve complex multi-disciplinary problems
Strong leadership and public speaking abilities
Exhibit high level of innovation, creativity, and initiative

Nice To Haves

12+ years of direct support and leadership to NSS space programs, missions, customers, or contractors
Demonstrated experience providing technical leadership in multi-program, multi-agency environments with government customers, program office personnel, engineering support, and contractors
A current and active TS/SCI, which is issued by the U.S. government, is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Responsibilities

Provide leadership to applied research and direct program activities in the areas of optical coatings and materials in support of SMC, NRO, NASA, and civil and commercial space programs
Work closely with customers to identify their needs and foster lasting relationships that support the entire design and operational life cycle of optical coatings for space systems
Provide subject matter expertise and leadership in design, fabrication, testing, modeling, characterization, and analysis of a wide variety of optical coatings, thin films, and optical materials in support of various satellite programs
Establish technical and scientific expertise within the scientific community and the NSS customer base related to structure-property-processing relationships in optical coatings and materials
Work closely with management, senior staff, and customers to develop and execute strategic direction, identify new business opportunities, and advance strategic technical priorities in support of our customers and beyond the FFRDC

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