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 Microelectronics Technology Department (MTD) is part of PSL with specialized laboratories used to test, accelerate, and analyze, failures in electronics used for space system. MTD is comprised of three sections: one that performs radiation effects testing, one that performs electrical characterization of microelectronics, while the third section performs failure analysis on microelectronics using tools that can identify anomalies from the macroscopic down to the atomic scale.  We are looking for a Semiconductor Test Research Associate (Research Associate II - Electrical Systems) who will support principal investigators and staff scientists, in conducting electrical measurements of CMOS, III-V and novel material technologies in addition to designing printed circuit boards (PCB).  Work will include using probe stations to perform measurements on bare die, as well as building test setups to evaluate packaged components.

Highlights of our lab’s capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour

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

What You’ll Be Doing

• Performing electrical measurements on, bare die using automated and manual probe stations, or packaged parts using test fixtures
• Assemble test setups based on requirements provided by the principal investigator
• Programing laboratory instruments using LabView or Python
• Collecting and analyzing measurement data
• Preparing reports and presentations to present measurement results
• Maintain equipment capability by ensuring it is calibrated and serviced when needed
• Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed
• Training and mentorship will be provided

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 electrical engineering, computer engineering, material science, physics or related discipline (pursuing or conferred within last 12 months)  
• 0-1 year of industry work experience 
• General knowledge of semiconductor devices and circuits
• Experience working in a lab environment while following laboratory safety protocols
• Ability to quickly troubleshoot problems
• This position requires the 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

How You Can Stand Out 

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

• Experience in the space industry, including internships

• Experience using benchtop lab equipment such as semiconductor parameter analyzers, oscilloscopes, network analyzers, DC power supplies, switch matrix, multimeters, etc.

• Experience automating lab instruments using python, LabVIEW, or other programming language

• Experience designing multilayer PCB

• Familiarity with testing III-V technologies, such as GaN HEMT

• Ability to handle multiple priorities and projects simultaneously

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)

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.