In an era of dynamic change in space, Aerospace is addressing a generation of complex challenges. We operate the only federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) committed exclusively to the space enterprise. Our technical experts span every discipline of space-related science and engineering. Join our team and thrive in a career that matters to the world and you personally.

Responsibilities

The Thermal Control Department consists of a team of experienced, trusted engineers with deep expertise in the design and analysis of spacecraft thermal control systems from component to system level. The department performs technical studies, experimental investigations, and realtime assessments to support key decisions by our customers and their contractors. The mission of the Thermal Control Department is to develop and apply thermal engineering expertise for spacecraft, payloads, and related systems. This position requires a strong background in the disciplines of heat transfer and thermal engineering and their applications to space systems; and direct experience in thermal design and control of spacecraft. No other organization collects such a breadth of technical knowledge and experience in thermal control and thermal management systems for the space industry. The department has a strong mentoring culture where knowledge gained is stewarded and shared in a healthy team environment.  Here, more than at any other employer, you can apply your expertise and interface with other subject matter experts to solve hard problems across a broad range of space programs.

Key Functions

• Independently conducts long-range technical studies and reports findings. Initiates studies designed to solve new technical problems and provide new technical solutions within area of expertise. Provides ongoing technical consultation and advice to management, customers, and contractors in area of specialization. Takes initiative to inform management of perceived technical problems and recommends courses of action. May lead cross-organizational teams and organizes interfaces with customer and/or Aerospace program offices. May bring in tasks and projects beyond personal activities from internal and external sources. Acts as organization's designated representative at technical meetings, presentations, and symposia.

Qualifications

Required for Engineering Specialist

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or closely related field with emphasis in heat transfer or thermal sciences
• Minimum of 10 years spacecraft thermal engineering experience, to include post-Bachelor's education
• Experience in all modes of heat transfer, thermodynamics, thermal sciences, thermal engineering, and two-phase thermophysics
• Hands-on experience with Thermal Desktop ® and/or SINDA software
• This position requires the 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

Required for Senior Engineering Specialist

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or closely related field with emphasis in heat transfer or thermal sciences 
• Minimum of 15 years spacecraft thermal engineering experience, to include post-Bachelor's education
• Experience in all modes of heat transfer, thermodynamics, thermal sciences, thermal engineering, and two-phase thermophysics
• Hands-on experience with Thermal Desktop ® and/or SINDA software
• Demonstrated leadership and coordination of teams of 3 or more people (including self)
• Demonstrated technical mentorship of others during career to date
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance at Secret or higher level, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

Preferred for Engineering Specialist or Senior Engineering Specialist

• Graduate-level academic coursework in conduction heat transfer, radiation heat transfer, numerical methods, and two-phase thermophysics
• Research and/or laboratory experience in cryogenics, visible and infrared sensor systems, heat pipe technology, thermal blankets, and spacecraft thermal modeling
• Patents and publications in applicable industry journals and/or conferences This position requires a current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance
• Demonstrated long-term career objectives consistent with the Thermal Control Department mission

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 poster and the supplement, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.