Plasma & Electric Propulsion Research Associate

The Aerospace Corporation; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 127,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care

Paid holidays

Telework options

401(k)

Flexible spending accounts

Relocation assistance

Professional growth

Education assistance

Job summary

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo is seeking an entry‑level scientist/engineer to support the Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section. You will assist with experimental design, fabrication, instrumentation, and analysis for propulsion and plasma research.

As part of PSL, you’ll contribute to test infrastructure readiness, collaborate with engineers, and develop hands‑on skills in a dynamic, security‑driven environment. U.S. citizenship and clearance eligibility required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, physics, or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months).
• 0-1 year industry experience.
• Fabrication skills with hand tools and basic machine tools.
• Working knowledge of electronics and basic circuit design.
• Knowledge of data acquisition systems including measurement hardware, sensors, wiring and software.

Responsibilities

• Support scientists and engineers in experimental design, development, and troubleshooting.
• Design, fabricate, instrument, and troubleshoot new experiments; maintain existing experiments.
• Ensure readiness of electric propulsion and plasma science test infrastructure.
• Collaborate with internal support organizations as needed.

Skills

Strong communication

Teamwork

Organizational skills

Adaptability

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in aerospace, electrical, mechanical engineering, or physics

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation in El Segundo is seeking an entry‑level scientist/engineer to support the Electric Propulsion & Plasma Science section. You will assist with experimental design, fabrication, instrumentation, and analysis for propulsion and plasma research.

As part of PSL, you’ll contribute to test infrastructure readiness, collaborate with engineers, and develop hands‑on skills in a dynamic, security‑driven environment. U.S. citizenship and clearance eligibility required.