Project Leader- Resilient Materials & Thin Films

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.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

Job Summary 

The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise.  PSL’s impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSL’s exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise. 

The Materials Processing Department (MPD) in the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) at The Aerospace Corporation conducts anomaly resolution, materials characterization, failure analysis, and applied research in materials processing, optical materials, thin films, and space environmental effects on materials for advanced space systems.  MPD hosts an interdisciplinary team working across materials science, optics, and engineering to design, manufacture, and test optical materials for space applications and provides technical support to national security space programs in these areas. 

The Materials Processing Department (MPD) is seeking a Project Leader to work with senior staff and SML management to advance research and technical activities related to Resilient Materials & Thin Films.  The ideal candidate will be able to create effective technical teams, work with stakeholders to develop projects and strategic direction, develop additional customers in our fast-paced environment, and contribute meaningfully and directly to research and program support activities. 

Work Model 

This position will be located 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA, offering remote flexibility as the business needs allow.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Provide leadership to research and direct program activities in the areas of optical coatings and resilient materials 

• Work closely with customers to identify their needs and foster lasting relationships that support the entire design and operational life cycle of critical space systems  

• Provide subject matter expertise and leadership in fabrication, testing, modeling, characterization, and analysis of a wide variety of optical coatings, thin films, and optical materials in support of various satellite programs 

• Work with management, senior staff, and customers to develop strategic direction, identify new business opportunities, and technical planning efforts to support or customers and beyond the FFRDC 

• The ideal candidate will have strong and demonstrated project management experience and understanding of the Aerospace R&D process 

• Strong leadership and public speaking skills required 

What You Need to be Successful 

Minimum Requirements: 

• Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics or a related science or engineering discipline is required   

• 8 years of applicable professional experience is required  

• Expertise with at least one spacecraft discipline in optical coatings, thin films, deposition technologies, or optical materials 

• Experience leading technical teams to solve complex problems  

• Strong background in satellite systems  

• Strong communication skills with an ability to explain complex technical issues, activities, architectures and designs, and operations to staff and customers  

• Experience providing technical support in multi-program, multi-agency environments with government program office personnel, engineering support, and contractors 

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