2026 Atomic Clocks and Precision Timekeeping Research Associate

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.

Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems. 

The Atomic Clocks and Precision Timekeeping Lab in PSL is involved in a broad range of both basic and applied precise-timekeeping activities, including: GPS clock exercises and anomaly resolution; clock ensemble algorithms and demonstration; environmental and radiation effects; laser physics for clocks and atomic devices; frequency comb experiments; and next generation clock assessment and development. We are hiring an Atomic Clocks and Precision Timekeeping Research Associate.

Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here:

Atomic Clocks Lab Fact Sheet

Aerospace Virtual Tours

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA. 

What You’ll Be Doing

• Assist lab staff to develop, review, document, troubleshoot and execute test procedures that mitigate risks and inform decisions about next-generation satellite systems.
• Prepare basic instrument control code to support experiments
• Analyze and prepare test data for reports and presentations
• Create a high state of readiness for mission-critical tests by maintaining laboratory test equipment and participating in design, procurement, training and documentation for new laboratory capabilities
• Perform routine lab safety inspections, maintain lab space organization, and work with facilities staff to fulfill work orders as necessary to stand up/stand down laboratory setups.
• Assist in reviewing technical literature to answer specific questions important to the mission. 
• Utilize internal and external resources to develop and grow job-specific hands-on laboratory skills and knowledge
• Occasional travel in support of test campaigns

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring 

• Strong written and oral communication skills 
• Must work well in a team environment 
• Possess organizational, time management and project management skills 
• Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need 
• Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations 

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university program in Physics, Engineering, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months).
• 0-1 year of industry work experience.
• Prior experience in a laboratory environment and with lab safety protocols.
• Working knowledge of Labview, Python or Matlab.
• Willing to travel occasionally to work locations or customer sites as required.
• This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. 
• Transcripts are required.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• Master’s degree from an accredited college/university program in Physics, Engineering, Chemistry, Mathematics, Computer Science or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months).
• Coursework/experience with precision timekeeping, atomic clocks, oscillators, optical frequency combs,