Materials Radiographer – Non-Destructive Evaluation; NDE

Materials Radiographer – Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE)

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.

The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) is seeking a highly experienced radiography specialist for the role of Materials Radiographer – Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) (Research Scientist /Senior Scientist– Materials Science). In this role, you will perform and oversee industrial radiographic inspections of critical aerospace hardware, applying advanced imaging techniques to characterize structural materials and detect defects in launch vehicle and spacecraft components.

You will define inspection approaches, lead field evaluations, and develop innovative data analysis methodologies to address complex inspection challenges. This position requires technical leadership in supporting mission assurance for USSF, NRO, and commercial space programs.

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

What You'll Be Doing

• Perform and oversee industrial radiographic inspections of mission-critical launch vehicle and spacecraft components, applying advanced X-ray imaging techniques to characterize materials and detect defects
• Develop, validate, and optimize radiographic inspection methodologies for aerospace materials including composites, metals, and bonded structures
• Lead field inspections at manufacturing facilities and launch sites, providing expert technical guidance and real-time assessment of flight hardware
• Develop data analysis methodologies for complex radiographic datasets, provide objective interpretation of findings, and collaborate with engineering teams on risk assessment and disposition recommendations for USSF, NRO, and commercial space programs
• Conduct expert review of radiographic inspection data, manufacturing acceptance documentation, and supplier NDI reports to verify compliance with specifications and ensure hardware quality
• Conduct applied research in X-ray science and radiographic techniques to solve emerging inspection challenges and advance materials characterization capabilities
• Support failure investigations, root cause analysis, and technical reviews through expert radiographic evaluation and documentation

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum requirements for the Research Scientist – Materials Science include:

• Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline is required
• A minimum of (8) years of professional industry experience is required
• Expert-level knowledge of X-ray science, radiographic imaging physics, and industrial radiography techniques including film, digital radiography, and other X-ray based characterization methods
• Demonstrated mastery in performing and interpreting radiographic inspections of aerospace materials including composites, metals, adhesive bonds, and complex assemblies
• Strong foundation in aerospace materials behavior, structural mechanics, and defect characterization to inform inspection strategy and data interpretation
• Proven track record of developing novel inspection approaches and resolving ambiguous or challenging radiographic findings
• Comprehensive knowledge of radiation safety protocols, regulations, and best practices for industrial radiography operations
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work off-business hours to support customer needs (approximately 20% travel or 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

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