The Aerospace Corporation · 4 weeks ago
2026 Materials Physics and Evaluation Scientist
El Segundo, CA
Full-time
Onsite
New Grad, Entry Level
$10K/yr - $140K/yr
0+ years expThe Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. They are seeking a Materials Physics and Evaluation Scientist to conduct research in material evaluation science and develop innovative nondestructive methods to evaluate space materials for launch vehicles and spacecraft. The role involves supporting various space agencies in evaluating critical components using nondestructive evaluation techniques.
AerospaceGovernmentInnovation ManagementMilitary
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Conduct research in material evaluation science for the components and structures used in launch vehicles and spacecrafts to ensure the performance integrity
Develop innovative nondestructive methods to evaluate space materials, components and structures with respect to various physical properties including, mechanical, thermal, electrical, optical, etc. These methods include but are not limited to techniques based on X-ray radiography, ultrasonic, eddy current, thermography, and dye-penetrant testing
Inspect space hardware and review manufacturing documents involving nondestructive testing and evaluation (NDT&E) in the field
Contribute directly to mission assurance of launch vehicles and spacecraft programs under the USSF and NRO or other space programs
Support laboratory and field testing for investigations and onsite reviews
Qualification
Required
Master's degree from an accredited college/university program in Chemistry, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
0-1 year of industry work experience
Solid understanding of physics and materials science
Hands on experience in one or more NDT&E techniques (like x-ray radiography, ultrasonic, eddy current, thermography, etc.)
Creative thinking and innovative approaches to problem solving
Capability to learn new relevant science and engineering knowledge
Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately 20% or as required
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
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
Preferred
Ph.D. degree from an accredited college/university program in Chemistry, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
Evidence of peer-reviewed journal publications in relevant technical areas
Strong knowledge of physics and engineering in materials and structures along with associated lab experience
Measurement and signal processing skills using various programming languages, i.e., Python, C++, Labview, etc
Demonstrated use of machine learning based approaches to scientific data analysis
Experience with the Intelligence Community
A current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
Benefits
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
Company
The Aerospace Corporation
As the government’s preeminent space innovation partner, Aerospace brings technical expertise to advance the nation's missions in space.
1001-5000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Tanya Pemberton
President & CEO
Ashley Kowalski
Project Leader - International Partnerships
Recent News
Washington Technology
2026-01-12
2025-12-27
2025-12-21
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