Senior Optical Coatings Scientist

2 weeks ago


El Segundo, California, United States The Aerospace Corporation Full time

Company Overview

The Aerospace Corporation serves as a vital partner to the nation's space initiatives, addressing complex challenges and delivering unparalleled technical knowledge. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we engage comprehensively across various facets of space, providing innovative solutions that encompass satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial sectors.

Position Summary

The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a multifaceted scientific entity that offers a broad and inventive research and development framework for an expanding space enterprise. PSL's influence is amplified through a diverse research portfolio that merges foundational scientific inquiry with state-of-the-art technology development, catering to a wide customer spectrum. Our unique capability to collaborate with all stakeholders—government, industry, and academia—enables us to devise novel solutions for the most pressing challenges in current and future technological applications.

The Materials Processing Department (MPD) within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) in PSL specializes in advanced materials processing, thin films, optical coatings, and the effects of space environments on materials for next-generation space systems. MPD comprises an interdisciplinary team that integrates materials science, optics, and engineering to design, fabricate, and evaluate optical materials and coatings for space applications. We are currently seeking a Senior Optical Coatings Materials Scientist to spearhead materials synthesis and characterization, conduct failure analysis, and engage in applied research related to optical coatings, thin films, and optical materials for space applications.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and conduct fundamental and applied research in thin films and optical materials supporting various space programs.
  • Provide expert knowledge in structure-property-processing relationships pertinent to the fabrication, testing, modeling, characterization, and analysis of optical coatings and materials.
  • Develop proposals to secure internal and external research funding in relevant fields.
  • Innovate diagnostic techniques for assessing optical and thermal performance of materials and characterizing thin film deposition environments.
  • Collaborate within a team to perform advanced investigations on optical coatings and materials for space applications.
  • Establish technical and scientific credibility within the scientific community and among relevant stakeholders.
  • Support national security space programs as a scientific advisor by applying laboratory research findings.
  • Document and present results as deliverables for clients and contribute to the corporate knowledge base.
  • Share findings with the scientific community through presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
  • Work independently and collaboratively on multiple projects, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • PhD in materials science, mechanical or aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related discipline.
  • 5+ years of relevant professional experience in optical coatings and materials.
  • Experience in spacecraft disciplines related to optical coatings, thin films, and deposition technologies.
  • Proven track record of peer-reviewed publications.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively on various projects.
  • Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally for work-related purposes.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in optical coatings or materials.
  • Demonstrated expertise in thin films and optical materials for space applications.
  • Strong background in optical characterization methods.
  • Experience leading technical teams in research.

Compensation and Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package, with salaries determined by various factors including education, experience, and skills. The salary range for this position is $100,300 - $175,900 annually.

Commitment to Diversity

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, valuing a diverse workforce that fosters innovation and unique perspectives. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on various protected characteristics.



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