Senior Optical Coatings Scientist

1 week ago


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

Company Overview

The Aerospace Corporation serves as a pivotal ally to the nation's space initiatives, tackling complex challenges and offering unparalleled technical proficiency. As a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we engage comprehensively across all dimensions of space, delivering inventive 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 provides a broad and innovative research and development framework for a burgeoning space sector. PSL's influence is amplified through a diverse research portfolio that merges foundational scientific inquiry with state-of-the-art technology advancement, 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 contemporary and future technology applications.

The Materials Processing Department (MPD) within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) at PSL offers expertise 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 in search of a Senior Optical Coatings Materials Scientist to spearhead materials synthesis and characterization, conduct failure analysis, and perform applied research in 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 to support various space programs.
  • Provide expert knowledge in structure-property-processing relationships related to the fabrication, testing, modeling, characterization, and analysis of optical coatings and materials.
  • Develop innovative diagnostic techniques for assessing optical and thermal performance of materials.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on ongoing research initiatives focused on optical coatings and materials.
  • Establish and maintain technical and scientific authority within the scientific community and among customers.
  • Document and present research findings to contribute to the corporate knowledge base and the scientific community.
  • Support national security space programs as a scientific advisor through the application of laboratory research outcomes.

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, particularly in optical coatings, thin films, and deposition technologies.
  • Proven track record of peer-reviewed publications.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively on multiple projects.
  • Strong communication skills for conveying technical information effectively.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally for work-related purposes.
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

  • 8+ years of progressively responsible experience in optical coatings or materials.
  • Demonstrated expertise in thin films and optical materials in support of space programs.
  • Experience leading technical teams in research initiatives.

Compensation and Benefits

We offer a competitive compensation package, with salaries determined by various factors including education, experience, and skills. Benefits include comprehensive health care, paid time off, flexible work schedules, and professional development opportunities.

At The Aerospace Corporation, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees can thrive and contribute to our mission.



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