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 Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section focuses on experimentally studying electric propulsion and other low-temperature plasma space technologies. This includes performing experiments to resolve flight anomalies, as well as characterizing commercial EP devices using our extensive plasma physics expertise. With a range of test facilities at our disposal, including our world-class EP3 chamber, we are equipped to study not only low-power devices like electrosprays but also high-power (>10 kW) systems. In support of flight programs, the section also investigates other plasma-adjacent phenomena like electrostatic discharge (ESD), sputtering, multipactor breakdown, and other forms of plasma-material interaction. We are looking for a Senior Electric Propulsion Scientist (Senior Scientist - Physics).

Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Interfacing with program office customers to coordinate experimental efforts or present results
• Directing the execution of experimental efforts by guiding junior technical staff
• Designing and executing experiments, and analyzing resulting data
• Proposing and managing internal research projects, both for financial and technical direction
• Mentoring junior staff and coordinating new project opportunities for them

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Must work well in a team environment

• Possess 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:

• PhD degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or physics  
• 10+ peer-reviewed technical publications
• 15+ years of experience in the electric propulsion field
• Familiarity with vacuum technology and cryogenics
• Demonstrated experience in other areas of low-temperature plasma science, such as ESD or plasma-material interaction
• Demonstrated experience working with government program offices or in a systems engineering role
• Willing to travel to domestic customer sites or for domestic/international conferences
• 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: 

• 5+ years of additional experience in ESD testing
• 5+ years of additional experience in plasma-material interaction research
• Demonstrated experience with EMI/EMC testing of flight hardware
• Industry experience working with flight EP systems
• Demonstrated participation in EP or plasma science professional associations

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)

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