Battery Engineer

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.

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 Energy Technology Department (ETD) within PSL conducts applied research in energy technology in support of space power systems, developing new tools and capabilities for characterization, evaluation, and assessment in support of acquisition of current and next generation energy storage and energy generation technology for national security space customers. As a Battery Engineer/Scientist within PSL’s Energy Technology Department (ETD), you will contribute to the development of new tools, capabilities, and prototypes for evaluating and analyzing battery and energy storage technologies for spacecraft applications.

You will conduct experiments, perform data analysis and modeling, and provide technical assessments for next generation spacecraft energy storage technologies for national security space customers.

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

• You will support R&D projects focused on battery and energy storage technologies for spacecraft and launch vehicle applications, including conducting experiments, analyzing data, and documenting results.
• You will perform battery testing, characterization, and data analysis to evaluate performance, degradation, and failure modes of lithium‑ion and other energy storage systems.
• You will apply data analysis, modeling, and programming tools to support battery performance predictions and materials analysis.
• You will assist in failure analysis and anomaly investigations, performing physical evaluations of battery materials and components.
• You will collaborate with senior scientists, engineers, and cross‑functional teams to design experiments and contribute to technical assessments.
• You will prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate findings to project teams and customers.
• You will support customer interactions and participate in meetings with program offices and government stakeholders.
• You will contribute to the development of future spacecraft battery technology roadmaps and support the transition of new energy storage technologies.
• This job is critical to the success of future National Security Space battery and energy storage development and acquisition.

• 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.

• Ph.D. degree from an accredited college or university program in material science, electrochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, or a related STEM field (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months).
• 0–1 year industry experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge or experience in battery/energy storage research, testing, or characterization.
• Strong foundation in…