Surface Scientist

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•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) within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) provides expertise and laboratory capabilities in materials and surface science with applications in optical 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 Scientist (Senior Member of Technical Staff / Research Scientist - Chemistry) to conduct 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

PhD degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline is required
A minimum of (5) or more years of increasingly responsible and relevant professional experience in Surface Science (Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline) is required
Experience with surface and materials characterization techniques, via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)
Laboratory and research experience related to the characterization of materials and surfaces
Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment on multiple ongoing projects
Experience using and developing laboratory test equipment to solve problems with materials
Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications in the scientific community
Willing to travel domestically up to 10% of the time for program support (as needed)
This position requires 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
A minimum of (8) or more years of increasingly responsible and relevant professional experience in Surface Science (Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline) is required
Demonstrated record of providing surface science subject matter expertise in support of space programs
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present methods and results effectively in briefings, formal reports, and informal communications
Excellent project management and team leadership skills and experience

Nice To Haves

Increasingly responsible industry experience in surface science, optical thin films, tribology, and/or contamination
Hands-on experience utilizing surface characterization tools to solve challenges with spacecraft materials
Experience with laboratory high vacuum systems
Experience using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to characterize materials and surfaces
Experience building and improving laboratory test stands using labview, python, or other control software
A current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government, is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Responsibilities

Perform fundamental and applied studies of spacecraft materials, with a focus on the impact of interfacial phenomena to real and modeled systems for applications to tribology, contamination, and/or thin films applications
Develop and apply subject matter expertise in surface characterization to spacecraft and launch vehicle systems
Develop an understanding of National Security Space (NSS) program needs and develop scientific capabilities to address those needs
Collaborate with a variety of technical experts across the laboratories on a wide variety of interdisciplinary projects, including (but not limited to) in the areas of physics, chemistry, materials science, fluid mechanics, optics, thermal transport, and propulsion
Conduct research and applied studies, both individually and in collaborative teams
Support 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