Surface Scientist

The Aerospace Corporation, a federally funded research and development center, is hiring a Surface Scientist (Senior Member of Technical Staff / Research Scientist – Chemistry) to conduct research, technology development, and support program activities by applying surface science techniques to current challenges for spacecraft.

Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports scientific research and advanced technologies for national security systems. The Materials Processing Department (MPD) within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) provides expertise in materials and surface science for optical thin films, space environmental effects, tribology, and contamination. The selected candidate will work full‑time on‑site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.

• Perform fundamental and applied studies of spacecraft materials, focusing on interfacial phenomena for tribology, contamination, and thin‑film applications.
• Develop and apply surface characterization expertise to spacecraft and launch vehicle systems.
• Build an understanding of National Security Space (NSS) program needs and develop scientific capabilities to address those needs.
• Collaborate with technical experts across physics, chemistry, materials science, fluid mechanics, optics, thermal transport, and propulsion on interdisciplinary projects.
• Conduct research and applied studies both individually and in collaborative teams.
• Provide technical insights arising from laboratory research results.
• Present results in reports, journal articles, and verbally for NSS customers, contractors, and the scientific community.

Minimum requirements for Senior Member of Technical Staff – Chemistry include:

• PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline (required).
• At least 5 years of progressively responsible and relevant professional experience in Surface Science.
• Experience with surface and materials characterization techniques, including X‑ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
• Laboratory and research experience related to the characterization of materials and surfaces.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively on multiple ongoing projects.
• Experience using and developing laboratory test equipment to solve materials problems.
• Demonstrated record of peer‑reviewed publications.
• Willingness to travel domestically up to 10% of the time for program support.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

Minimum requirements for Research Scientist – Chemistry include:

• At least 8 years of progressively responsible and relevant professional experience in Surface Science.
• Demonstrated record of providing surface science subject matter expertise in support of space programs.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including briefing and report writing.
• Excellent project management and team leadership skills and experience.

• Industry experience in surface science, optical thin films, tribology, and/or contamination.
• Hands‑on experience with surface characterization tools applied to spacecraft materials.
• Experience with laboratory high vacuum systems.
• Use of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) to characterize materials and surfaces.
• Experience building and improving laboratory test stands using LabVIEW, Python, or other control software.
• Current and active TS/SCI security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

• Pay range: $ – $ per year (annual).

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

• 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‑paid contributions and matching.
• 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.

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, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, gender, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

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