2025 Research Assistant - Space Photovoltaic Hardware/Device Testing

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.

The Aerospace Corporation is hiring a Space Photovoltaic Hardware/Device Testing Research Assistant for an opportunity located in El Segundo, CA.

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 diverse 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 Energy Technology Department (ETD) in PSL leads the space photovoltaics community by conducting basic and applied research in characterizing novel photovoltaic devices and understanding how they degrade in the space environment. Our capabilities for advanced characterization techniques and dedication to precision and accuracy supports our national security and civil and commercial space customers with reliable data to predict the performance and degradation of their solar arrays in the harsh environment in space.

As a Space Photovoltaics Hardware/Device Testing Research Associate, you will directly support scientists and engineers by leveraging your skills to proactively identify, troubleshoot, and address challenges in the test and characterization of space solar cells and coupons. You will be responsible for integrating activities within a single full laboratory system and/or multiple integration as well as custom test activities. These activities include integration of design, setup, data collection, and analysis, with overall goals and direction provided by senior staff.  You will also support designing unique solutions toward laboratory measurements, data analysis, and/or prototype deliveries in addition to maintaining and repairing existing equipment used for characterizing photovoltaic devices.

Work Model

• This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work.
   

What You’ll Be Doing

• Performing tests and measurements of photovoltaic devices on systems using LabVIEW and related tools

• Conducting testing in a development mode: diagnose malfunctions or design problems and determine corrective actions to achieve measurement precision and accuracy

• Supporting general laboratory activities including maintenance, calibration, cleanliness, organization, purchasing and inventory

• Assisting in the design, construction, test, and checkout of test equipment

• Recommending improvements or modifications to engineering designs as necessary

• Fostering a collaborative working environment through open communication, embracing diverse viewpoints to spur innovation and maintaining a cohesive, mission-driven team dynamic
   

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• BS in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering or related discipline

• 0-1 year of related industry experience

• Experience in hardware and device testing

• Experience with electrical test equipment such as meters, oscilloscopes, signal generators, Keithleys, and similar equipment

• Working knowledge of LabVIEW or related software for data acquisitions systems including measurement hardware, sensors, wiring, and data acquisition software

• Experience working with laboratory safety protocols

• 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:

• Relevant industry or research experience with BS in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering or equivalent

• Electronic Technician and/or Machine Shop training

• Experience with electrical characterization of semiconductor devices such as Dark Light-Current (IV), Light IV, Quantum Efficiency, Electroluminescence

• Layout competency: analog, digital, electrical circuitry do's and don’ts; mechanical drawing of complicated structures

• Experience using electronics circuit simulation tools and electronics CAD tools such as LTSpice and KiCad

• Experience working with and troubleshooting vacuum equipment

• Ability to handle multiple projects and prioritize tasks accordingly

• Customer service orientation

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)

$36.72 - $55.08

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 peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.