Chemical Propulsion Scientist

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nations 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 youll 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 Propulsion Science Department (PSD) is seeking a Chemical Propulsion Scientist (Research Scientist / Senior Scientist Propulsion Engineering) with a strong foundation in chemistry gas dynamics and combustion along with demonstrated hands-on experience safely conducting hazardous / energetic experiments. Our section solves a wide range of launch and spacecraft propulsion-related issues at various phases from technology proof-of-concept to anomaly resolution of propulsion systems currently in use.

Highlights of our labs capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour

The selected candidate willbe requiredto workfull-timeon-site at our facility inEl Segundo CA.

What Youll Be Doing

• Development test and application of chemical propulsion technologies in support of national security and civil space programs
• Lead and execute advanced propulsion research and development often initiating experimental efforts from the ground up and providing clear technical direction to team members Aerospace program offices and government stakeholders
• Collaborate with management senior technical staff and customers to identify new opportunities shape strategic direction and develop technical proposals for projects that drive broad impact across the department
• Responsible for safely executing hazardous and energetic experiments within our existing propulsion research facilities and laboratories while also developing and expanding future test capabilities to support emerging in-space propulsion and/or defense system needs
• Responsible for preparing reports and presentations to communicate results and recommendations to Aerospace program offices government personnel and other customers
• Tackle challenging multi-disciplinary problems by actively collaborating with other subject matter experts within PSL and the Engineering Technology Group (ETG)

WhatCorporateSkillsYoull 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

Minimum requirements for the Chemical Propulsion Scientist (Research Scientist Propulsion Engineering):

• M.S. degree in physical chemistry chemical engineering aerospace engineering mechanical engineering or equivalent STEM field is required
• A minimum of (8) years of experience in chemical propulsion for in-space or defense applications is required
• Demonstrated hands-on expertise in combustion device testing / analysis and high-hazard experimental systems is required
• Knowledge of chemical propulsion system architectures and systems-level integration in an evolving space landscape
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain excellent working relations with customers and contractor personnel
• Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs approximately 10% (as required)
• 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 for the Chemical Propulsion Scientist (Senior Scientist Propulsion Engineering) include:

• A minimum of (12) years of experience in chemical propulsion for in-space or defense applications is required
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental research for in-space chemical propulsion systems (e.g. monopropellant thrusters bipropellant thrusters) and/or solid rocket motor technologies is required
• Demonstrated record of providing chemical propulsion subject matterexpertiseand working directly with government program offices
• Familiarity with the broader chemical propulsion landscape including National Security Space (NSS) needs commercial development and civil mission requirements
• Excellent oral and written communication skills including the ability to present methods and results effectively in briefings formal reports and informal communications
• A strong record of academic and technical research via peer-reviewed publications and active participation in professional associations reflecting a commitment to ongoing professional development and established leadership within the field

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Ph.D. degree in physical chemistry chemical engineering aerospace engineering mechanical engineering or equivalent STEM field is strongly preferred
• Expertise in safe handling and testing of hazardous and/or energetic propellants (e.g. hydrazine MMH MON explosives)
• Knowledge of propellant chemistry / formulation / synthesis and compatibility / materials considerations
• Experience with Python /LabVIEW /MATLABor similar software for data analysis and collection

We offer a competitive compensation package where youll 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)

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 otherthe 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 equalopportunity 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 colorreligiongeneticinformation 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 youre 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 emailat .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.