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 Electronics and Photonics Laboratory (EPL) focuses on areas of electronics and photonics directed towards development of new capabilities for space systems, as well as ensuring that new and existing systems reliably deliver 100% mission success in the rigors of the space environment. Within EPL, The Photonics Technology Department (PTD) focuses on laser-based technology research and development for space systems, with efforts in integrated photonics, quantum photonics, microwave photonics, lidar, atomic clocks, and others.
As the Photonics Technologies Scientist(Senior Member of Technical Staff/Research Scientist - Optical and Photonic Systems), you will work alongside the Directed Energy and Radiation Effects Section of PTD to pursue fundamental and applied research into radiation effects on materials, components, and integrated devices. Our team conducts experiments on laser damage thresholds, photonic device response to laser irradiation, and single event effect testing on electronic devices.
The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.
Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour
What You’ll Be Doing
Providing technical support to national security space programs, internal project leaders and external collaborators
Planning, developing and executing experiments related to photonic device characterization
Supporting in the development, use, and maintenance of bespoke testbeds probing materials and device resiliency to multiple radiation types
Preparing and presenting technical reports to various audiences including technical collaborators, customers and Aerospace program offices
Engaging with collaborators and program offices to deliver results and provide technical guidance
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for the Senior Member of Technical Staff- Optical and Photonic Systems include:
PhD degree in Physics, Optics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering or a related discipline is required
A minimum of (5) years of progressively responsible professional engineering or scientific experience (graduate school research experience may count toward this requirement), demonstrating a proven track record of technical leadership, innovation, and the ability to solve complex technical challenges is required
Knowledge of and hands-on laboratory experience in optical spectroscopy, high energy laser physics, or characterization of optoelectronic device physics
Ability to work independently and as part of interdisciplinary teams
Experience with Python, LabView, MATLAB or similar software for data analysis and instrument control
Willing to travel domestically and internationally approximately 10% of the time (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
In addition to the above, the minimum requirements forResearch Scientist - Optical and Photonic Systems include:
A minimum of (8) years of progressively responsible professional engineering or scientific experience (graduate school research experience may count toward this requirement), demonstrating a proven track record of technical leadership, innovation, and the ability to solve complex technical challenges is required.
Industry-specific experience in a customer-facing role
Demonstrated contributions to technical literature in the form of peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, or other technical reports
Experience leading technical teams through projects from conception to completion
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
Demonstrated ability to write research proposals for external funding
Knowledge of government project lifecycles
Proven track record leading campaigns at U.S. Government scientific user facilities
Experience combining experimental results with software tools for simulation and modeling of high energy laser physics
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
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)
$110,400.00 - $193,500.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
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
We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.