Plasma Science Research Associate

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 Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section focuses on experimentally studying electric propulsion and other low-temperature plasma space technologies. This includes performing experiments to resolve flight anomalies, as well as characterizing commercial EP devices using our extensive plasma physics expertise. With a range of test facilities at our disposal, including our world-class EP3 chamber, we are equipped to study not only low-power devices like electrosprays but also high-power (>10 kW) systems. In support of flight programs, the section also investigates other plasma-adjacent phenomena like electrostatic discharge (ESD), sputtering, multipactor breakdown, and other forms of plasma-material interaction. We are looking for a Plasma Science Research Associate (Research Associate III/IV). 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. What You’ll Be Doing We perform technical assessment, research and development, risk mitigation, and anomaly investigation and resolution through laboratory experimentation and analysis You will directly support scientists and engineers of the Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section in this function as well as interface as needed with other internal support organizations Our technical work demands a broad hands-on skillset to achieve our goals, and your applied skills will be critical to the success of the projects performed by the section Your function will involve the design, fabrication, instrumentation, and troubleshooting of new experiments as well as maintenance of existing experiments You will play a critical role in the readiness of our electric propulsion and plasma science test infrastructure Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring   Strong written and oral communication skills  Must work well in a team environment  Possess organizational, time management and project management skills  Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need  Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations  This position is available as Research Associate III or IV What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements for the  Research Associate III include:   Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline A minimum of (3) years of experience in an industry or research environment Fabrication skills with hand tools and basic machine tools Working knowledge of electronics and basic circuit design Working knowledge of data acquisitions systems including measurement hardware, sensors, wiring, and data acquisition software This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the  Research Associate IV include:   Master’s degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline A minimum of (6) years of experience in an industry or research environment. Experience with mechanical CAD and analysis software Experience with modifying and maintaining NI LabVIEW programs, DAQ systems, and PLC programming Precision fabrication experience and experience interfacing with machine shops Experience with vacuum systems How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Experience working in and maintaining a plasma science or electric propulsion laboratory Experience working with high purity low pressure flow gas flow systems 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) $86,700.00 - $136,420.00 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 proce