Research Associate III (Propulsion)

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
The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise. PSL's impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSL's exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise.
The Chemical Propulsion and Environmental Science section of the Propulsion Science Department performs laboratory experimentation utilizing multiple vacuum and high-energy test facilities. As a Research Associate III- Propulsion Systems, you will directly support scientist and engineers, both in development and execution of experiments and supporting the operations of associated laboratories. You will also be responsible for integrating activities within a single full laboratory system and/or multiple integration as well as custom test activities. These activities include integration of design, setup, data collection, and analysis, with overall goals and direction provided by senior staff. Designs unique solutions toward laboratory measurements, data analysis, and/or prototype deliveries.
Work Model
This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work.
What You'll Be Doing

• We perform technical assessment, research and development, risk mitigation, and anomaly investigation and resolution through laboratory experimentation and analysis
• You will directly support research scientists and engineers of the Propulsion Science Department in this function as well as interface as needed with other internal support organizations
• Our technical work demands a wide array of hands-on skillsets to achieve our goals, your applied skills will be critical to the success of the project performed by the department
• Your function will involve the design, fabrication, instrumentation, and troubleshooting of new experiments as well as maintenance of existing experiments
• You will be key to the readiness of our chemical propulsion test infrastructure

What You Need to be Successful - Research Associate III- Propulsion Systems
Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelors' degree in Chemistry, Physics, or Chemical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering is required
• Minimum of (3) years of experience in an industry or research environment
• Basic fabrication skills including cutting, drilling, and tapping metals, masonry, and plastics
• Working knowledge of mechanical CAD and interfacing with shops for precision machining
• Working knowledge of tube fitting and bending (such as working with Swagelok, HiP, SAE, NPT)
• Working knowledge of electrical and data acquisitions systems including measurement hardware, sensors, wiring, and data acquisition software. (such as NI LabVIEW/hardware and PLC programing)
• Willingness to occasionally travel and support customer needs, approximately 10% (as required)
• 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:

• Master's degree in Chemistry, Physics, or Chemical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering is strongly preferred
• 6+ years of experience in an industry or research environment is preferred
• Experience with rocket test facilities, chemical laboratories, vacuum systems, compressed gases, and/or high-pressure systems, including panel layout and build
• Experience handling propellants, cryogens, ordnance, and/or high energy materials
• Experience with glassware, basic synthesis experience, chemical handling & storage, and developing safety procedures

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)
$88,434 - $119,646
Pay Basis: Annual
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 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 Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.