Space Photovoltaics Test & Measurement Specialist

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) support 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) in PSL provides expert technical assistance for space solar cell and solar array technology used on a broad range of spacecraft and leads the community by conducting basic and applied research in characterizing photovoltaic devices and understanding how they degrade in the space environment. Our capabilities for advanced characterization techniques and dedication to precision and accuracy support our national security, civil, and commercial space customers with reliable data to predict the performance and degradation of their solar arrays in the harsh environment of space.  

As a
** Space Photovoltaics Test & Measurement Specialist (Technical Specialist – Test & Measurement III or Technical Specialist – Test & Measurement IV)**, you will provide precision measurement, calibration, and instrumentation support for the characterization of space solar cells and array components. You will work alongside scientists and engineers to set up, operate, and maintain laboratory measurement systems, develop test procedures and data acquisition tools, and ensure the quality and traceability of experimental data used to support national security space programs.  

Highlights of our lab’s capabilities can be seen here:
Virtual Tour  The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.  
** What You’ll Be Doing
** You will support precision measurement and calibration activities for space photovoltaic characterization:
* Set up, calibrate, maintain, operate, repair, and inspect a wide variety of precision measurement equipment used in solar cell and solar array characterization.
* Conduct precision measurements, tests, and inspections on solar cell devices, materials, and assemblies to determine conformance to specifications.
* Validate measurement and experimental results and prepare clear, accurate data reports.
* Execute test and measurement tasks independently within provided parameters, including optical, electrical, and environmental measurements relevant to photovoltaic devices.
* Write and maintain test procedures and equipment operational procedures to support existing and new lab tests.
* Develop and maintain data collection software and single-instrument control tools to support laboratory measurements.
* Support laboratory maintenance, inventory, and property and metrology audits.
* ** Test & Measurement IV, additionally:
** develop complex laboratory control and multi-instrument data collection software, develop laboratory practices and procedures, mentor less experienced…