Section Manager – Energy Generation

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

11h•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 Energy Technology Department (ETD) within PSL conducts basic and applied research in energy storage and generation technology for national security space systems. The department provides technical expertise in space solar cell and solar array technology, leading the community in characterizing photovoltaic devices and understanding their performance and degradation in space environments. We are seeking a dynamic Energy Generation Section Manager to lead our team in developing techniques, tools, and prototypes for evaluating next-generation spacecraft solar cell and solar array technology. In this strategic leadership role, you will guide and mentor a team of 5-10 scientists, engineers, and research associates while conducting hands-on research and providing direct space program support for energy generation, solar cells, and arrays. You will combine deep expertise in space photovoltaic characterization with team leadership to deliver mission-critical solutions, collaborating with the department director and partner organizations to advance strategic objectives while maintaining technical credibility through active research and publications. Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in chemistry, physics, electrical engineering, materials science, device physics or related STEM field.
A minimum of (6) years of applicable professional experience (post-bachelors) participating in photovoltaic technologies, solar cell characterization, solar array systems engineering or space power systems technologies.
In-depth knowledge of and experience with advanced space photovoltaic device characterization techniques, solar simulators, solar array materials analysis, and/or spectroscopic characterization techniques.
Able to work effectively with a diverse range of customers and programs, identify technical support requirements and collaborate within engineering matrix organization.
Effectively communicate and manage conflicts and competing priorities.
Highly motivated and goal-oriented, with exceptional interpersonal skills that drive success in inter-organizational and interdisciplinary teamwork.
Willing to travel approximately 10-20% (as needed).
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 chemistry, physics, electrical engineering, materials science, device physics, or related STEM field is preferred.
A strong technical background and experience in spacecraft solar cell and solar array systems engineering, requirements development, design or development for one or more space systems.
Experience in technical projects or program leadership is highly desirable, indicating the ability to successfully manage complex initiatives and drive cross-functional collaboration.
Experience in one or more of the following areas: Photovoltaic device or solar array technology research, solar array AI&T (Assembly, Integration, and Test) activities, anomaly resolution, and/or on-orbit operation or telemetry analysis.
Space radiation and space environmental effects on photovoltaic materials such as III-V semiconductors, silicon, perovskites, CIGS, or other power generation technologies.
Solar cell/solar array modeling for solar array design and predicting on-orbit performance.
Exploitation of large datasets, data management and analysis for fundamental research applications such as application of AI/ML to data analysis.
Active participation in professional societies or technical working groups related to space power generation.
A current and active TS/SCI is security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government, is strongly preferred.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Responsibilities

Apply deep technical expertise in photovoltaics combined with strategic leadership, innovation, and strong interpersonal skills to plan, develop, and coordinate breakthrough solutions for space power generation technology in a collaborative multi-disciplinary environment.
Interface with space program offices to understand customer needs and providing direct technical support in solar cell/array acquisition, development, test, reliability, and system-level analysis.
Establish and maintain strategic networks with government counterparts, industry partners, and external collaborators across the space power community to identify emerging requirements and technology insertion opportunities.
Conduct and lead R&D projects that reduce risk and enable rapid technology transitions and contribute to the future spacecraft solar cell and array technology roadmaps.
Prepare written and oral reports of research activities and accomplishments, and present to higher management, customers, internal colleagues and the broader scientific community.
Participate in inter-organizational team assignments and educational activities that advance Aerospace's technical capabilities and support knowledge sharing across the enterprise.
Supervise 5-10 technical staff (scientists, engineers, and research associates), including supporting career development, performance reviews, and determining hiring needs while ensuring corporate practices and security policies are followed.
Work with the department director and business manager to develop and implement organizational R&D and program support strategies for solar array technology, provide input for budgetary planning, and communicate corporate policies to staff.
Provide strategic and administrative guidance and mentorship to technical staff for the organization, execution, and work product documentation of photovoltaic research and solar array evaluation activities.
Establish interfaces with internal programs and external collaborators, assign staff to projects, monitor and evaluate project progress, and identify new business opportunities in space power generation technology.

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