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Advanced Composites Scientist
2 months ago
The Aerospace Corporation stands as a pivotal ally to the nation's space initiatives, addressing complex challenges and delivering unparalleled technical proficiency. As the steward of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we engage comprehensively across the spectrum of space endeavors—offering inventive solutions that encompass satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial clients. Joining our team means becoming part of a distinguished group of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Be a part of our mission in space.
At Aerospace, we prioritize fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where all employees can unite in our shared passion and ambition—to fulfill a mission that transcends individual efforts.
Position Overview
The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a multifaceted scientific entity that delivers a broad and innovative research and development framework for an expanding space sector. PSL's influence is amplified through a varied research portfolio that integrates foundational scientific inquiry with state-of-the-art technology development to cater to a wide array of clients. PSL's unique capability to collaborate with all stakeholders—government, industry, and academia—enables us to devise novel solutions to the most pressing challenges in contemporary and future technological applications. The strength of PSL is derived from the synergy of advanced tools and facilities, a comprehensive repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our personnel. We leverage these resources across over 150 specialized laboratories to confront emerging challenges in the space domain.
The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory is on the lookout for a highly qualified, experienced professional with a robust background in polymers and composites, specifically focusing on composite design, layup, assembly, inspection, characterization, and mechanical testing. As a Senior Member of Technical Staff or Research Scientist in Materials Science, you will collaborate with a well-established team dedicated to research and customer program support, backed by highly trained and accomplished personnel. A deep understanding of polymer structure-property relationships, familiarity with various analytical techniques for polymer characterization, and practical experience in mechanical testing of continuous fiber polymer matrix composites and prepreg systems are essential. Additionally, advanced hands-on experience with processing techniques such as out-of-autoclave and autoclave curing methodologies for pre-preg materials is required.
Work Environment
This role necessitates an on-site presence, ensuring 100% engagement in the workplace.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead initiatives within the Polymers/Composites section of the Materials Science Department.
- Serve as the technical authority on structure-property-performance relationships of resins, leading investigations that require advanced proficiency in mechanical testing of continuous fiber composite materials.
- Directly contribute to significant research impacting active launch and space vehicle programs.
- Grasp material principles beyond mere stress and strain, incorporating time and chemistry-dependent phenomena such as fatigue, creep, relaxation, thermal/moisture expansion, and aging of polymers and adhesives.
- Strategically address and resolve testing issues, anomalies, and challenges.
- Collaborate with Aerospace program offices and industry partners to develop and evaluate design and analysis criteria, requirements, and specifications for launch and space vehicle hardware.
- Maintain cutting-edge skills in experimental design, data analysis, and fabrication techniques.
- Engage collaboratively with colleagues in the Metals Section and Nondestructive Evaluation Section on joint projects.
- Translate customer challenges into actionable tasks supported by Aerospace's extensive capabilities, fostering cross-Engineering Technology Group (ETG) collaboration and external partnerships.
- Work autonomously while seeking independent funding and collaboration opportunities.
- Promote innovation by leading research activities, including grant proposal development; prepare comprehensive reports on research outcomes and present findings to management, colleagues, and the broader scientific community.
Qualifications for Success
Minimum requirements for the Senior Member of Technical Staff – Materials Science include:
- A PhD in a STEM discipline is mandatory.
- At least 5 years of relevant professional experience is required.
- A solid foundation in chemistry, materials science, polymer characterization, and composite fabrication (both autoclave and out-of-autoclave).
- Proven experience in designing and executing mechanical testing for polymers and composites.
- Ability to think broadly and quickly assimilate a wide range of materials characterization techniques and mechanical testing methodologies.
- Excellent interpersonal communication and presentation skills, coupled with the ability to work independently.
- Act as an effective liaison among government, Aerospace, and contractor personnel to develop and assess design and analysis criteria for mission-critical hardware.
- Willingness to travel occasionally for work-related purposes, both domestically and internationally, approximately 20% of the time.
- This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is necessary to secure a security clearance.
In addition, the minimum requirements for the Research Scientist – Materials Science role include:
- A minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience is essential.
- Experience supervising polymer synthesis for high-temperature composites or composite fabrication.
- Proven track record of leading teams in the design and execution of mechanical testing for polymers and composites.
- Experience as a principal investigator in research and development focused on polymers and composites for launch or space vehicle applications.
- Demonstrated ability to author grant proposals and serve as a principal investigator on externally funded research grants and commercial contracts.
- Experience managing technical projects and cross-organizational teams.
- Exceptional project management and team leadership skills are required.
Preferred Qualifications
It would be advantageous if you possess one or more of the following:
- Over 12 years of experience in relevant professional industry experience in composites fabrication is preferred.
- Experience supervising polymer synthesis for high-temperature composites.
- Led investigations involving polymer characterization and composite trade studies, technology insertion, and requirements definition to support launch vehicle programs.
- Demonstrated ability to lead change, serve as a role model, and mentor early-career staff, acting as a true force multiplier.
- A current and active Secret or TS/SCI security clearance issued by the U.S. government is strongly preferred. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
We offer a competitive compensation package where you will be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you contribute to our organization. The grade-based pay range for this position is outlined below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through various factors, including education, experience, knowledge, and skills.
(Min - Max)
$100,300 - $175,900 Pay Basis: AnnualLeadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is straightforward: every employee, regardless of their level or role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is to our people. To nurture our talent and ensure a robust pipeline of future leaders, we seek individuals who:
- Operate Strategically
- Lead Change
- Engage with Impact
- Foster Innovation
- Deliver Results
Employee Rewards
During the interview process, our team will provide details about our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. Some highlights include:
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
- Paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation time.
- Flexible work schedules, including telework options.
- 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
- Relocation assistance.
- Professional growth and development programs to advance your career.
- Education assistance programs.
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
We celebrate our uniqueness, drawing from diverse backgrounds and experiences, united by the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to perform at our best at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce fosters an environment where unique ideas flourish and differing perspectives are valued, leading to superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
