Materials Physicist – Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE)

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 deliver innovative solutions spanning satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers.

The Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and advanced technologies. PSL operates over 150 specialized laboratories for testing, analyzing, and troubleshooting rocket and satellite systems. The Materials Science Department within the Space Materials Laboratory seeks a well-qualified individual for a program-facing role developing advanced non-destructive inspection (NDI) techniques for mission-critical launch vehicle and spacecraft components.

About the Role

As a Materials Physicist – Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE), you will serve as a trusted technical advisor, ensuring mission assurance through comprehensive data analysis, technical reviews, and clear communication of complex findings to program stakeholders. This role involves forward-looking research to address emerging materials characterization challenges while collaborating with USSF, NRO, and commercial space programs. The position may be filled at the Senior Member of Technical Staff or Research Scientist level, depending on qualifications, and requires full-time, on-site work in El Segundo, CA.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical advisor to USSF, NRO, and commercial space programs, ensuring mission assurance through expert review of inspection data, manufacturing documentation, and technical assessments.
• Partner with program offices and technical teams to present inspection findings, risk assessments, and recommendations supporting mission success and structural integrity verification.
• Develop and validate advanced NDI techniques for mission-critical launch vehicle and spacecraft components, including radiography, ultrasonics, eddy current, thermography, and other modalities.
• Conduct applied research in materials characterization and NDI science to solve emerging inspection challenges for next-generation aerospace systems.
• Perform hands-on inspection of flight hardware and conduct field evaluations at manufacturing and launch sites.
• Lead cross-functional teams in laboratory testing, failure investigations, and technical reviews to ensure structural integrity and mission success.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship (required to obtain and maintain a security clearance).
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work outside normal business hours to support program needs (~20% travel).

Qualifications

Senior Member of Technical Staff

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of three (3) years of progressive professional engineering or scientific experience post-bachelor’s degree, demonstrating technical leadership and innovation.
• Strong foundation in aerospace materials science, structural mechanics, and the physical principles underlying NDI techniques.
• Proficiency in performing and interpreting results from one or more NDI techniques (e.g., radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, eddy current testing, infrared thermography).
• Creative problem-solving skills and adaptability to evolving technical challenges.

Research Scientist

• Master’s degree (or higher) in a relevant discipline (see above).
• Five (5) or more years of industry experience.
• Expert-level knowledge of NDE principles, physics, and multiple NDI techniques (radiography, ultrasonics, eddy current, thermography, etc.).
• Demonstrated mastery in performing and interpreting NDI inspections of aerospace materials, including composites, metals, adhesive bonds, and complex assemblies.
• Comprehensive knowledge of NDI safety protocols, regulations, and best practices for industrial inspection operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.
• Experience developing and qualifying NDI methodologies for composite, metallic, or advanced material systems, including technique validation and procedure documentation.
• Measurement and signal processing skills using programming languages such as Python, C++, or LabVIEW.
• Experience designing custom inspection fixtures and automated test systems, including mechanical design and motion control integration.
• Peer-reviewed journal publications in relevant technical areas.
• Experience with the Intelligence Community.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance (strongly preferred).

Skills

• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical findings into clear, actionable recommendations for diverse audiences.
• Interpersonal skills to build credibility with program offices and external stakeholders.
• Collaborative teamwork and coordination across internal and external organizations.
• Organizational, time management, and project management skills.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing organizational needs.

Leadership Competencies

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Pay

Grade-based pay range: $100,300 – $175,900 annually. Individual salaries are determined by education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
• 401(k) Plan with immediate eligibility and vesting; total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.