Senior Tribology Scientist (Retiree Casual)

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.
Job Summary
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 Materials Processing Department (MPD) within the Space Materials Laboratory (SML) provides expertise and laboratory capabilities in materials and surface science with applications in optical thin films, space environmental effects, tribology, and contamination. MPD hosts interdisciplinary teams working across materials science, physics, chemistry, optics, and engineering to design, manufacture, and test materials for space applications.
MPD is seeking a Senior Tribology Scientist (MTS Retiree Casual R3) to conduct research and development activities, and support program activities by applying surface science techniques to current challenges for spacecraft. The ideal candidate will provide a wealth of subject matter expertise in the area of spacecraft oils and greases, while also contributing technical guidance to the
program office on an as-needed basis.
Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour
Work Model
This is a retiree- casual part-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work.
What You'll Be Doing

• Perform fundamental and applied studies of spacecraft materials, with a focus on the impact of interfacial phenomena to real and modeled systems for applications to tribology, contamination, and/or thin films applications
• Apply subject matter expertise in surface characterization and lubricant properties to spacecraft and launch vehicle systems
• Collaborate with a variety of technical experts across the laboratories to solve problems of a tribological nature
• Mentor and develop early career technical staff

What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for Senior Tribology Scientist (MTS Retiree Casual R3):

• PhD degree in chemistry, materials science, mechanical engineering, or a related technical discipline is required
• 15 years of experience in applying tribological knowledge to space and launch systems is required
• Retiree Casual: An employee who has retired from the corporation and is rehired as a casual employee after a minimum six-month break in service
• Casual employment is normally for fewer than 20 hours a week, usually non-continuous, irregular, and infrequent
• Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs
• Experience studying the rheological, tribological, and chemical properties of oils and greases
• Experience with surface analytical techniques, such as X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy
• Prior experience translating laboratory studies into actionable results for U.S. Government programs
• 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

How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

• 25 years of experience in applying tribological knowledge to space and launch systems is preferred
• Familiarity with the technical requirements and needs of the National Systems Group (NSG) Program Offices is strongly desired
• Previous experience managing or developing technical staff at various points in their careers is desirable
• 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)
$100,000.00 - $208,000.00
Pay Basis: Hourly
Leadership Competencies
Our 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 Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During 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 plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(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 hire
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We 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 Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity 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, genetic information, 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 email at [email protected] . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.