Plasma Science Research Associate

Position Overview

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking a Plasma Science Research Associate (Research Associate III or IV) to support its Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section in El Segundo, California. The successful candidate will work full‑time on‑site and will assist scientists and engineers with laboratory experimentation and analysis, design, fabrication, instrumentation, and maintenance of experiments, and support of electric propulsion and plasma science test infrastructure.

• Perform technical assessment, research and development, risk mitigation, and anomaly investigation through laboratory experimentation and analysis
• Support scientists and engineers of the Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section and interface with internal support organizations as needed
• Design, fabricate, instrument, and troubleshoot new experiments and maintain existing experiments
• Contribute to the readiness of electric propulsion and plasma science test infrastructure
• Adapt to changing responsibilities and new assignments as required

• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work well in a team environment
• Organizational, time‑management, and project‑management skills
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing organizational needs
• Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts with internal and external organizations

Minimum requirements for Research Associate III:

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related discipline
• At least 3 years of experience in industry or research
• Fabrication skills with hand tools and basic machine tools
• Working knowledge of electronics and basic circuit design
• Experience with data acquisition systems, measurement hardware, sensors, wiring, and data acquisition software
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)

Minimum requirements for Research Associate IV:

• Master’s degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or a related discipline
• At least 6 years of experience in industry or research
• Experience with mechanical CAD and analysis software
• Experience modifying and maintaining NI LabVIEW programs, DAQ systems, and PLC programming
• Experience with precision fabrication and interfacing with machine shops
• Experience with vacuum systems

• Experience working in and maintaining a plasma science or electric propulsion laboratory
• Experience working with high‑purity low‑pressure flow gas systems

Salary range: $86,700.00 – $ per year (pay basis: annual). Compensation is determined by education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs
• Education assistance programs
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

• Operate strategically
• Lead change
• Engage with impact
• Foster innovation
• Deliver results

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

Applicants with disabilities or who require reasonable accommodation may contact the company by phone at  or by email lbox.