Section Manager – Energy Generation

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•$134,200 - $201,300•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is a trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, providing technical expertise and innovative solutions across satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), the company is broadly engaged with defense, civil, and commercial customers. The Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports national security systems through scientific research and advanced technologies, utilizing over 150 specialized laboratories. The Energy Technology Department (ETD) within PSL conducts basic and applied research in energy storage and generation technology for national security space systems, leading in characterizing photovoltaic devices and understanding their performance and degradation in space environments. The Energy Generation Section Manager will lead a team of 5-10 scientists, engineers, and research associates in developing techniques, tools, and prototypes for evaluating next-generation spacecraft solar cell and solar array technology. This strategic leadership role involves hands-on research, direct space program support for energy generation, solar cells, and arrays, and collaborating with the department director and partner organizations to advance strategic objectives while maintaining technical credibility through active research and publications. The position requires full-time on-site work at the 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 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

Advanced degree in chemistry, physics, electrical engineering, materials science, device physics, or related STEM field.
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.
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 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.
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

Competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.
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.