Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective andtimelydevelopment 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 troubleshootvirtually everyaspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. Theexpertiseof the laboratoriestechnical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems.

The Advanced Materials Processing section of the Materials Processing Department (MPD) within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) provides expertise and laboratory capabilities in optical materials, thin films, and space environmental effects on materials for advanced space systems. MPD hosts an interdisciplinary team working across materials science, optics, and engineering to design, deposit, and test optical materials for space applications. We are seeking an Optical Thin Films Research Associate 6 Materials Science Research to support research, technology development, and program activities related to optical coatings, thin films, and optical materials for space applications. The successful candidate will directly support scientists and engineers in development and execution of experiments and in the operation of associated laboratories.

What You9ll Be Doing

• Provide scientific and laboratory support to programs investigating optical materials and thin films for advanced spacecraft applications in support of National Security Space, NASA, and civil and commercial customers.
• Operate and utilize materials processing and thin film deposition equipment as well as optical and materials characterization tools and techniques to deposit optical materials and evaluate their behavior.
• Work closely with technical staff and scientists to develop, design, build, and modify characterization, testing, and analysis methods and tools for optical materials and thin films.
• Apply standard techniques and procedures to carry out a series of scientific and/or engineering tasks. Resolve experiment, testing, and hardware issues, anomalies, and challenges. Collect, analyze, and present test data.
• Maintain specialized equipment and capabilities, and ensure proper calibration.
• Participate in interdisciplinary teams for ongoing research and technical programs. Provide creative solutions to diverse technical problems.
• Support more than one technical area of the department as needs arise, and support multiple projects concurrently.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor9s from an accredited university in materials science, mechanical or aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related science or engineering discipline.
• Experience or familiarity with thin films, coatings, and optical materials.
• Prior experience in a laboratory environment and with lab safety protocols.
• Familiarity with laboratory data collection and data analysis.
• This position requirestheability to obtain and maintain a securityclearance, 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:

• Master9s degree from an accredited university in materials science, mechanical or aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related science or engineering discipline.
• Industry experience in optical coatings and materials, thin film deposition, or optical characterization.
• Hands-on laboratory experience related to optics, optical materials, or materials processing, including thin film deposition techniques (PVD preferred).
• Experience with optical modeling of thin films or characterization of optical properties.
• Experience with one or more of the following: high-vacuum systems and hardware, lasers and optical systems, automation, data acquisition and measurement systems (such as LabVIEW and PLC programming), mechanical design (such as Solidworks) and machining.
• Active TS/SCI clearance.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you9ll 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)

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 6 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 6the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.