Senior Research Scientist (Photovoltaic)
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
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.
As the Energy Technology Department (ETG) Senior Solar Array Scientist, you will be assisting in the development and acquisition of next generation spacecraft solar cell and solar array technology for national security space customers. This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA.
What You’ll Be Doing
S/he will develop and lead R&D projects to reduce risk and enable rapid technology transition, develop future spacecraft solar cell and array technology roadmap, and provide technical assessments of issues and risk associated with development, test and fielding of a next generation spacecraft solar cell and array
You will coordinate with colleagues, customers, matrix engineering organizations and Aerospace laboratory resources to assure sound technical direction is being pursued in support of the spacecraft solar cell and array technology
S/he will maintain networks with other program offices, engineering experts, and organizations across the national security space community
You will also brief technical findings and recommendations to department colleagues, program offices, government, and Aerospace management
This job is critical to the success of future NSS solar cell and array technology development and acquisition
This position will require strategic, innovation, velocity, accountability, and people Leadership Competency Models to plan, develop, coordinate, and deliver innovative solutions for our customers related to space solar cell and array technology area
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements:
A doctorate degree in chemistry, physics, and device physics
Typically (12) years of applicable professional or educational experience is required
Experience with aspects of space photovoltaic devices, test, integration, sub-system AI&T, anomaly resolution, and on-orbit operation
A strong technical background and experience in spacecraft solar array systems engineering, requirements development, design or development for one or more National Security Space systems
Experience working in government customer-facing organizations
Able to identify technical support requirements and work effectively with matrix organization to obtain required support
Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately ~20% (as required)
This position requires the ability to have and maintain a current and active TS/SSBI/SCI 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:
You should have strong people management skills which includes: training, motivating and directing employees to optimize workplace productivity and promote professional growth
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 The Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the supplement, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.