2025 Photonics Research Associate

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.
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 Electronics and Photonics Laboratory (EPL) focuses on areas of electronics and photonics directed towards development of new capabilities for space systems, as well as ensuring that new and existing systems reliably deliver 100% mission success in the rigors of the space environment. Within EPL, The Photonics Technology Department (PTD) focuses on laser-based technology research and development for space systems, with efforts in integrated photonics, quantum photonics, microwave photonics, LiDAR, atomic clocks, and others. PTD is hiring a 2025 Photonics Research Associate (Research Associate II - Optical and Photonic Systems Research) to support laboratory-based research and development efforts with a focus on emerging photonic technologies and platforms such as free-space optical communications, integrated photonics, microwave photonics, and quantum photonics.
Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour
Work Model
This full-time position will be located 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA.
What You'll Be Doing
As part of the Photonics Technology Department, you will conduct research, development, and analysis, with a focus on photonic technologies, to help shape the future of technology for space, including:

• Setting up and maintaining a variety laboratory experiments, focused on but not limited to optical systems
• Using microfabrication facilities to manufacture and package novel photonic devices
• Collecting and analyzing data, then presenting results internally to management, customers and externally at conferences and workshops
• Providing critical support to the laboratory research and development activities as an active member of interdisciplinary research teams
• Providing support for field campaigns involving travel to remote locations
• Learning new skills while on the job and becoming independent and knowledgeable in laboratory activities
• Working with a broad group of scientists and engineers helping to solve the nation's most challenging problems

What Corporate Skills You'll Bring

• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Must work well in a team environment, coordinate efforts, and work with other internal and external organizations
• Must possess strong 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:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university program in Physics, Optics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
• 0-1 years of industry work experience
• Ability to work in a research laboratory setting
• Knowledge of data analysis techniques, including skills in or ability to learn Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, or related languages
• Willingness to travel domestically, approx. 10% of time, and internationally 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

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

• Active security clearance
• Experience with the operation and alignment of benchtop optical systems and fiber optics
• Knowledge of photonic devices and applications
• Experience with design software such as Solidworks or AutoCAD
• Programming ability in Python, MATLAB, Mathematica, or related technical language
• Knowledge of instrument setup and control including automation using LabVIEW, PyVISA, or an equivalent program
• Experience with running and/or developing processes in a clean room setting

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)
$36.56 - $49.47
Pay Basis: Hourly
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 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 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, 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.