Plasma Science Research Associate

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 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 perform technical assessment, research and development, risk mitigation, and anomaly investigation and resolution through laboratory experimentation and analysis. You will directly support scientists and engineers of the Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section in this function as well as interface as needed with other internal support organizations. Our technical work demands a broad hands‑on skillset to achieve our goals, and your applied skills will be critical to the success of the projects performed by the section.

Your function will involve the design, fabrication, instrumentation, and troubleshooting of new experiments as well as maintenance of existing experiments. You will play a critical role in the readiness of our electric propulsion and plasma science test infrastructure. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed.

• 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

Minimum Requirements for the include:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited program in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)
• 0-1 year industry experience
• Fabrication skills with hand tools and basic machine tools
• Working knowledge of electronics and basic circuit design
• Working knowledge of data acquisitions systems including measurement hardware, sensors, wiring, and data acquisition software

This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security…