Surface and Interfacial Scientist - Tribology & Surface Chemistry
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. 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) within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) in PSL provides expertise and laboratory capabilities in materials and surface science with applications in optical materials and thin films, space environmental effects, tribology, and contamination. MPD hosts interdisciplinary teams working across materials science, physics, chemistry, optics, and engineering to design, manufacture, and test materials for space applications. We are seeking a Surface and Interfacial Scientist to conduct applied research, technology development, and support program activities by applying surface science techniques to current challenges for spacecraft. The ideal candidate will provide subject matter expertise in a primary area that best matches their skillset, while also contributing to the interdisciplinary and collaborative teams within MPD. 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, California.
Requirements
- Ph.D. degree from an accredited program in chemistry, materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related technical discipline.
- Demonstrated expertise and experience in surface characterization and surface engineering, particularly for tribological materials
- Hands-on experience with the surface science techniques of X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is required
- Experience using and developing laboratory test equipment to solve problems with materials
- Established record of peer-reviewed journal publications in relevant technical areas
- Willingness to support across a wide variety of technical areas as needs arise
- Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment on multiple ongoing projects
- Willingness to travel occasionally to support customer needs, approximately 15% (or as required)
- This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government.
- U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with contact mechanics, mechanical systems analysis, and/or adhesion and adhesives
- Extensive experience utilizing XPS to solve various challenges with materials, adhesives, and interfaces
- Experience with laboratory high vacuum systems and building laboratory test stands, including using LabView, Python, or other control software
- Active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government.
Responsibilities
- Perform fundamental and applied studies of spacecraft materials, with a focus on the impact of interfacial phenomena to real and modeled mechanical systems for applications to tribology and surface chemistry
- Develop and apply subject matter expertise in surface characterization to spacecraft and launch vehicle systems
- Conduct and lead investigations related to surface and interfacial phenomena utilizing X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) techniques
- Collaborate with a variety of technical experts across the laboratories on a wide range of interdisciplinary projects, including (but not limited to) in the areas of chemistry, physics, materials science, fluid mechanics, optics, thermal transport, or propulsion
- Develop an understanding of National Security Space (NSS) program needs and develop scientific capabilities to address those needs
- Support space programs with technical insights arising from the results of laboratory research
- Present results in reports, journal articles, and verbally for NSS customers, contractors, and scientific community
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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
