Research Associate Engineer III
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.
At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration - to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.
We remain committed to maintaining a safe environment for hiring as we look forward to the future of work. Click here for information on Aerospace's COVID-19 directives and safety procedures implemented to keep our workplace safe.
Job Summary
Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL)has more than 100 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The diverse 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 Chemical Propulsion and Environmental Science section of the Propulsion Sciences Department performs laboratory experimentation utilizing multiple vacuum and high-energy test facilities each with high-fidelity combustion and propulsion diagnostics. This is a full-time position in El Segundo, CA.
What You'll Be Doing
- You will be performing technical assessment, research and development, risk mitigation, and anomaly investigation and resolution through laboratory experimentation and analysis
- S/he will directly support scientist and engineers of the Chemical Propulsion section in this function as well as interface as needed with other internal support organizations
- Our technical work demands a wide array of hands-on skillsets to achieve our goals, your applied skills will be critical to the success of the project 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 be key to the readiness of our chemical propulsion test infrastructure
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in a STEM field or equivalent
- Minimum of (3) years of experience in an industry or research environment
- Basic fabrication skills including cutting, drilling and tapping metals, masonry, and plastics
- Working knowledge of tube fitting and bending (such as working with Swagelok, HiP, SAE, NPT)
- Working knowledge of electrical and 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.
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
- Master's degree in a STEM field or equivalent
- 6+ years of experience in an industry or research environment is preferred
- Experience with mechanical CAD design and analysis software
- Experience with modifying and maintaining NI LabVIEW programs, DAQ systems, and PLC programing
- Fabrication experience including the precision machining and/or interfacing with shops
- Experience with chemical laboratories, vacuum systems, compressed gases, and/or high-pressure systems, including panel layout and build
- Experience working in and maintaining a hot-fire rocket test facility
- Experience handling propellants, cryogens, ordnance, and/or high energy materials
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 diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the 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 Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. 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, color, religion,genetic information, 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 you're 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 email [email protected]. You can also review The Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law andthe supplement, as well as thePay Transparency Policy Statement.