2025 CFRP Composites Materials Scientist

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.As the CFRP Composites Materials Scientist (Senior Member of Technical Staff - Materials Science), you will conduct and lead applied R&D, failure analysis and anomaly resolution on fiber-reinforced composite materials used for structural applications. The ideal candidate will provide subject matter expertise in materials processing, testing, and characterizations of fiber-reinforced composite materials focused on space and aerospace applications.The candidate will work closely with our Program office and customers as subject matter expert.Work ModelThis full-time position will be located 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA.What Corporate Skills You’ll BringStrong written and oral communication skillsMust work well in a team environmentPossess organizational, time management and project management skillsDemonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needInterpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizationsWhat You’ll Be DoingLeading and working alongside multi-disciplinary teams to perform numerous in-depth structural materials-related root cause investigations, specifically focused on carbon fiber composite materials and adhesive bonding issuesDeveloping and optimizing manufacturing processes for composite materials, including lay-up, curing and consolidation techniquesAssessing technology gaps and provide direction for process developmentSupporting onsite reviews on space composite hardware in order to assess risk based on manufacturing and material non-conformancesWriting proposals, for both internal and external funding sourcesDirecting research on the development of novel composite materials as well as science-based investigations pushing forward materials and processing technologies for space applicationsManufacturing demonstration articles, and generate intellectual propertyPresenting and publishing technical findings as a subject matter expert for impacted hardware to govt., contractor and customer teams along with proposed processing recommendations and resolution pathways for remediationWhat You Need to be SuccessfulMinimum Requirements:Ph.D. degreefrom an accredited college/university programin Materials Science,Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemistry or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)0-1 year of industry work experienceTechnical experience in fiber-reinfornced composites and well versed in the processing of space composite hardware, as well as the use of chemical, thermal and mechanical property test evaluation toolsWillingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately 10% (as required)This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: Hands-on experience with using an autoclave, Instron mechanical testing and thermal analysis equipmentHands-on experience with characterization of structure-property relationship of high-performance CFRP composite materials and their processing effects on resulting thermal and mechanical propertiesRecords on publishing technical papers and delivering conference presentationsA current and active TS/SCI security clearance, which is 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’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.(Min - Max)$100,000 - $120,000 Pay Basis: AnnualLeadership CompetenciesOur leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:Operate StrategicallyLead Change Engage with Impact Foster Innovation Deliver Results Ways We Reward Our EmployeesDuring your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:Comprehensive health care and wellness plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(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 hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.Equal Opportunity CommitmentThe Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-17