2025 Chemical Propulsion Research Engineer

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.

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. 

Work Model

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA within the Propulsion Science Department (PSD). 

PSD is looking for an ambitious Chemical Propulsion Research Engineer to join our group supporting customers in the rapidly evolving space business, particularly in experimental research and development in propulsion and high energy systems. We solve a wide range of chemical propulsion issues at various stages of application, from proof of concept to troubleshooting flight systems.

What You’ll Be Doing

• The successful applicant will be responsible for the development, test, and application of chemical propulsion technology in support of National Security and Civil Space Programs and space-related activities. 

• As a research scientist/engineer, you will execute advanced research and development programs in propulsion, chemical reaction kinetics and fluid dynamics, and detonation phenomena in compliance with established Safety Guidelines.

• You will establish and lead vigorous, Customer-supported research efforts utilizing the existing Propulsion Research Facility and Aerospace Laboratories as well as developing future capabilities to meet emerging needs.

• Active collaboration is encouraged with subject matter experts (SMEs) both within the Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) and the Engineering Technology Group (ETG) in the support of our colleagues in multiple Program Offices that utilize chemical propulsion.

• Innovation and Velocity are core to enabling Mission Success, in our dynamic and challenging environment.

• Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. degree from an accredited program in physical chemistry, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, or mechanical engineering.

• 0-1 year of industry work experience

• Experience in chemistry, combustion, gas dynamics, and/or propulsion.

• Experience in experimental research and measurement, data acquisition, and data analysis.

• Strong communication and presentation skills and a publication record of accomplishment.

• Demonstrated coursework or research experience in Chemical Thermodynamics, Chemical Kinetics, Combustion, and Rocket Propulsion.

• Willing to travel domestically approx. 10% to support technical exchange with the aerospace community and customers

• Expertise in both shock wave and combustion areas, including chemical kinetics and detonations

• Capable of contributing to both experimental and theoretical aspects of shock waves, high temperature kinetics, and propulsion technology

• Knowledge or experience in spacecraft chemical/electric propulsion systems, experimental thruster testing, experimental diagnostics, and/or propellant chemistry

• Experience/expertise in advanced optical diagnostics s