Surface and Interfacial Scientist – Thin Films & Optical Coatings

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, 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. What You’ll Be Doing Perform fundamental and applied studies of spacecraft materials, with a focus on the impact of interfacial phenomena to real and modeled systems for applications in optical coatings, thin films, and optical materials Develop and apply subject matter expertise in surface characterization to spacecraft and launch vehicle systems Conduct and lead investigations utilizing X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) surface characterization techniques 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 range of interdisciplinary projects, including (but not limited to) in the areas of materials science, chemistry, physics, and optics Disseminate results to NSS and scientific communities through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications  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  What You Need to be Successful – Senior Member of Technical Staff, Materials Science   Minimum Requirements:   Ph.D. degree in materials science, mechanical or aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics, chemistry, optics, or a related science or engineering discipline Demonstrated expertise and experience in surface characterization and surface engineering related to optical coatings, thin films, deposition technologies, and optical materials Hands-on experience with the surface analysis techniques of X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) is required 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.  How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:   Extensive experience utilizing XPS to solve various challenges with materials, interfaces, thin films, and coatings Research experience and hands-on laboratory work in design, deposition, and characterization of optical coatings and materials 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. 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) $100,300.00 - $150,400.00 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 fut