Sr. Structural and AI Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

4d•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 space systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, 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; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments. The Structures Department within the Structural Mechanics Subdivision of VSD is seeking a well-qualified individual to serve as a Senior Structural & AI Engineer ( Senior Engineering Specialist – Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning ). Ideal candidates will have a strong foundation in solid mechanics, practical experience in structural analysis using both hand calculations and finite element analysis techniques, a passion for the space industry, expertise in industry-relevant Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and data science, and a desire to apply their expertise and creativity to help solve a variety of technical challenges. The Structures Department has insight into the structural integrity of launch vehicles, spacecraft, hypersonic technologies, liquid rocket engines, solid rocket motors, pressurized structural systems, electronic components, and thermal protection systems being developed across the aerospace industry and develops technical assessments to help inform government customer decisions. This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA., requiring at least 4 days onsite.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field
12 years or more years showing progressively increased responsibility
Expert knowledge in the failure mechanics of metallic and composite hardware associated with typical manufacturing and processing issues
Expert knowledge in using Nastran, Abaqus, Ansys, or other commercial finite element tools
Experience and professional understanding of industry-relevant Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology and data science to build cutting edge AI systems
Experience leading cross-or ganization teams through all phases of product execution
Willing to travel domestically approximately 20 percent of the time
Ability to obtain and maintain a current and active Top Secret/SCI security clearance issued by the U.S. government.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in engineering with a focus in structural and/or solid mechanics or a closely related field
Experience collaborating across the contractor product lines and industry working groups
Technical proficiency in several of the following areas: Fracture Mechanics and Fatigue Analysis (Damage Tolerance/Safe Life Analysis and Fracture Control) Additive manufacturing design integration, evaluation, and assessment Welded joint mechanical properties and analysis Nondestructive inspection criteria development Bonded and/or bolted joint failure criteria and analysis methodologies Composite structure failure criteria and analysis methodology Probabilistic analysis and uncertainty quantification Structural stability margin assessment
Experience in the following areas: Structural-Thermal-Optical Performance (STOP) analysis Formulation and/or assessment of qualification test plans, procedures, objectives, and success criteria using a building block approach leading up to full-scale test Real-time monitoring of test execution and evaluation of test results

Responsibilities

Provide technical leadership as part of mission assurance processes for U.S. Space Force, U.S. Air Force, and NRO missions to assure structural integrity. Typical tasks include independent analyses and assessments, hardware reviews, review and evaluation of stress analysis reports, evaluation of flight data, and investigation of flight and test anomalies.
Lead and coordinate technical studies across organizational personnel
Assess program risk and advise program office and customers during certification, development, and/or operational phases of programs
Serve as senior mentor for the development of early career staff, providing technical guidance and insight.
Conduct peer reviews of technical products and findings.
Act as the organization’s lead representative at technical meetings, presentations, and symposia
Maintain authoritative expertise in the development, analysis, and verification of space structures, thorough knowledge of structural design criteria in combination with structural test methods
Identify, evaluate, and resolve issues/anomalies/challenges related to space vehicle structures
Publish clarifications, insights, and guidance on technical topics to assist industry in enhancing mission assurance practices or advancing the state-of-practice in structural verification and validation
Researches, identifies and refines project solutions/architectures to develop and enhance innovative technology

Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.
The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.
Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max) $166,400.00 - $249,600.00
Pay Basis: Annual
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