Propulsion Engineer

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.
Job Summary
The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise. PSL's impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSL's exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise.
The Propulsion Science Department (PSD), within the Space Materials Laboratory of PSL, is the corporations center of excellence for experimental chemical and electric propulsion research and development. Within the chemical propulsion section, we resolve a wide range of launch vehicle and spacecraft propulsion-related issues at various phases, from technology proof of concept to anomaly resolution of propulsion systems in use on flight vehicles.
We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer (Senior Member of Technical Staff - Propulsion Engineering) who is an ambitious researcher to join the team supporting customers in a rapidly growing space sector, with a concentration on chemistry, gas dynamics, combustion, and high-energy experimentation. Our department is responsible for the development, test, and application of propulsion technology in support of National Security, Civil, and Commercial Space Programs and other space-related activities.
Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour
Work Model
This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work.
What You'll Be Doing

• You will execute research, development, and technology maturation programs in propulsion, chemical reaction kinetics and fluid dynamics, and detonation phenomena in compliance with established safety guidelines
• S/he will establish and lead customer-supported research efforts utilizing the existing Aerospace Propulsion Laboratories as well as develop future capabilities to meet emerging needs
• Strong communication and presentation skills

What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for a Senior Member of Technical Staff - Propulsion Engineering

• PhD degree in physical chemistry, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, or mechanical engineering is required
• Minimum of (5) years of experience in chemistry, combustion, gas dynamics, and/or propulsion is required
• Project leadership experience in experimental research and high-fidelity measurement
• Willing to travel domestically approx. 10% to support technical exchange with the aerospace community and customers
• 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.

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• 8 years of experience in chemistry, combustion, gas dynamics, and/or propulsion is preferred
• Demonstrated research experience in Chemical Thermodynamics, Chemical Kinetics, Combustion, and Rocket Propulsion
• Expertise in both shockwave and combustion areas, including chemical kinetics and detonations is strongly desired
• Knowledge or experience in spacecraft chemical/electric propulsion systems, experimental thruster testing, experimental diagnostics, and/or propellant chemistry is preferred
• Experience/expertise in advanced optical diagnostics such as laser diagnostic, high-speed Schlieren, emission spectroscopy is strongly preferred

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 - $150,400
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 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 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 at [email protected]. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.