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The Aerospace Corporation · 18 hours ago

Surface Scientist

El Segundo, CA

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

$100K/yr - $176K/yr

5+ years exp

The Aerospace Corporation is a trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, providing unmatched technical expertise in various aspects of space. They are seeking a Surface Scientist to conduct research and technology development by applying surface science techniques to challenges faced by spacecraft, while collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.

AerospaceGovernmentInnovation ManagementMilitary

Work & Life Balance

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Perform fundamental and applied studies of spacecraft materials, with a focus on the impact of interfacial phenomena to real and modeled systems for applications to tribology, contamination, and/or thin films applications

Develop and apply subject matter expertise in surface characterization to spacecraft and launch vehicle systems

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 variety of interdisciplinary projects, including (but not limited to) in the areas of physics, chemistry, materials science, fluid mechanics, optics, thermal transport, and propulsion

Conduct research and applied studies, both individually and in collaborative teams

Support with technical insights arising from the results of laboratory research

Present results in reports, journal articles, and verbally for NSS customers, contractors, and scientific community

Qualification

Surface ScienceMaterials CharacterizationX-ray Photoelectron SpectroscopyOptical Thin FilmsTribologyContamination ControlLaboratory Test EquipmentResearch ExperienceProject ManagementTeam LeadershipCommunication SkillsCollaboration

Required

PhD degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline is required

A minimum of (5) or more years of increasingly responsible and relevant professional experience in Surface Science (Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline) is required

Experience with surface and materials characterization techniques, via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)

Laboratory and research experience related to the characterization of materials and surfaces

Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative environment on multiple ongoing projects

Experience using and developing laboratory test equipment to solve problems with materials

Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications in the scientific community

Willing to travel domestically up to 10% of the time for program support (as needed)

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

A minimum of (8) or more years of increasingly responsible and relevant professional experience in Surface Science (Chemistry, Materials Science, or related discipline) is required

Demonstrated record of providing surface science subject matter expertise in support of space programs

Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present methods and results effectively in briefings, formal reports, and informal communications

Excellent project management and team leadership skills and experience

Preferred

Increasingly responsible industry experience in surface science, optical thin films, tribology, and/or contamination

Hands-on experience utilizing surface characterization tools to solve challenges with spacecraft materials

Experience with laboratory high vacuum systems

Experience using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to characterize materials and surfaces

Experience building and improving laboratory test stands using labview, python, or other control software

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