Optical Coatings Material Scientist

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) in the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) within PSL conducts anomaly resolution, materials characterization, failure analysis, and applied research in materials processing, optical materials, thin films, and space environmental effects on materials for advanced space systems. MPD hosts an interdisciplinary team working across materials science, optics, and engineering to design, manufacture, and test optical materials and coatings for space applications and provide technical support to national security space programs in these areas.

MPD is seeking an Optical Coatings Materials Scientist (Research Scientist / Sr. Scientist- Materials Science) to advance technical activities, conduct and lead program support and applied research, and work closely with SML management to define strategic priorities related to optical coatings and thin films. The ideal candidate will provide subject matter expertise in optical materials and coatings, coordinate and lead failure analyses and anomaly resolution, and create and lead effective technical teams while collaborating across disciplines. He/she will work closely with stakeholders of all levels to advance projects and strategic direction, develop new customers in our fast-paced environment, and contribute meaningfully and directly to research and program support activities.

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Provide leadership to applied research and direct program activities in the areas of optical coatings and materials in support of SMC, NRO, NASA, and civil and commercial space programs
• Work closely with customers to identify their needs and foster lasting relationships that support the entire design and operational life cycle of optical coatings for space systems 
• Provide subject matter expertise and leadership in design, fabrication, testing, modeling, characterization, and analysis of a wide variety of optical coatings, thin films, and optical materials in support of various satellite programs
• Establish technical and scientific expertise within the scientific community and the NSS customer base related to structure-property-processing relationships in optical coatings and materials
• Work closely with management, senior staff, and customers to develop and execute strategic direction, identify new business opportunities, and advance strategic technical priorities in support of our customers and beyond the FFRDC
• The ideal candidate will have strong and demonstrated technical depth and project leadership experience in optical coatings and materials, as well as understanding of the NSS customer base and the Aerospace R&D process

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for the Research Scientist – Materials Science:

• Master’s degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related science or engineering discipline is required
• A minimum of (8) years of increasingly responsible professional, industry, or academic experience in optical coatings and materials is required
• Demonstrated expertise, research experience, and leadership with spacecraft disciplines in optical coatings, thin films, deposition technologies, and optical materials
• Established record of peer-reviewed publications in the scientific community
• Ability to write proposals to seek internal and external research funding in relevant technical areas
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical issues, activities, and operations to staff and customers of all levels
• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment on multiple ongoing projects
• Willing to travel as needed (~15%) to work locations or customer sites, domestically or internationally
• This position requires the 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 for the Sr. Scientist – Materials Science include: 

• Ph.D. degree in materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related science or engineering discipline is required
• A minimum of (12) years of increasingly responsible professional, industry, or academic experience in optical coatings and materials for space systems is required
• Established technical and scientific record of expertise and experience within the NSS customer base related to optical coatings and materials for space applications
• Demonstrated experience leading technical teams to solve complex multi-disciplinary problems
• Strong leadership and public speaking abilities
• Exhibit high level of innovation, creativity, and initiative

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• 12+ years of direct support and leadership to NSS space programs, missions, customers, or contractors
• Demonstrated experience providing technical leadership in multi-program, multi-agency environments with government customers, program office personnel, engineering support, and contractors
• A current and active TS/SCI, 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)

$117,300.00 - $226,900.00

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:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change   
• Engage with Impact   
• Foster Innovation   
• Deliver Results  

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.