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.
At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.
Job Summary
The Aerospace Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) is a diverse scientific organization that provides a broad and innovative research and development backplane for a growing space enterprise. PSL’s impact is grown through a diverse research portfolio that blends foundational scientific research with cutting-edge technology development to serve a broad customer base. PSL’s exclusive ability to work with all stakeholders: (government, industry, and academia) enables us to provide novel solutions to the most challenging issues in current and future technology applications. The strength of PSL comes from the combination of cutting-edge tools and facilities, a vast repository of space-system knowledge, and the extensive technical expertise of our people. We harness these tools and expertise in over 150 different laboratories to tackle the new challenges for the space enterprise.
The Corporate Metrology Office provides calibration services and support to The Aerospace Corporation and is seeking a Technical Specialist – Test & Measurement I/II whose primary function is providing technical support associated with various types of measurement (i.e., radiation, dimensional, optical, density, nuclear material accountability, etc.); equipment calibration (i.e., electrical, physicals, dimensional); and inspection. Typical areas of responsibility include: setting up, calibrating, maintaining, operating, repairing, and inspecting a wide variety of precise inspection equipment; conducting precision measurements, tests, and inspections on instruments, materials, parts, and assemblies to determine their conformance to precision specifications; validating measurement/experimental results and reporting data. May develop calibration techniques for new or one-of-a-kind equipment and/or set up and design measurement systems to provide calibration of new and unique instruments. May develop new measurement techniques for new one-of-a-kind parts or assemblies and/or set up and design measurement systems to provide precision measurements of new and unique parts and assemblies. Typically requires skill and knowledge in physics, chemistry, math, and electronics.
Work Model
This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Provides technical support associated with various types of laboratory measurement (i.e. radiation, dimensional, optical, density, nuclear material accountability, etc.); equipment calibration (i.e., electrical, physicals, dimensional); and inspection
- Responsible for setting up, calibrating, maintaining, operating, repairing, and inspecting a wide variety of precise inspection equipment; conducting precision measurements, tests, and inspections on instruments, materials, parts, and assemblies to determine their conformance to precision specifications; validating measurement/experimental results and reporting data
- Develops calibration techniques for new or one-of-a-kind equipment and/or set up and design measurement systems to provide calibration of new and unique instruments
- May develop new measurement techniques for new one-of-a-kind parts or assemblies and/or set up and design measurement systems to provide precision measurements of new and unique parts and assemblies
- Executes tests and data collection tasks assigned by laboratory personnel, including some circuit testing and troubleshooting
- Operates and maintains various key instruments and equipment, including support for property and metrology audits
- Documents test procedures and equipment operational procedures used to support tasks
- Maintains laboratory equipment and ensures equipment is calibrated and serviced when problems arise
- Assembles laboratory configurations and operate lab experiments autonomously
What You Need to be Successful
Minimum Requirements for the Technical Specialist – Test & Measurement I include:
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High School Diploma or equivalent
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Minimum of (2) years in a vocational trade school or apprenticeship program
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Knowledge and use of test instruments
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Basic knowledge of instrument control and data collection techniques and some competency in data management.
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Experience working with laboratory safety protocols.
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Experience utilizing laboratory instruments.
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Basic skill and knowledge in physics, chemistry, math, and electronics
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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.
In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Technical Specialist – Test & Measurement II include:
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A minimum of (4) years in a vocational trade school or apprenticeship program
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Experience utilizing laboratory instruments
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Understanding of experiment setup and documentation.
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Experience working with laboratory safety protocols.
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Working knowledge of instrument control, data collection techniques and data management.
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Knowledge and use of test instruments
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Skill and knowledge in physics, chemistry, math, and electronics
How You Can Stand Out
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
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Must be detail oriented and have the ability to quickly troubleshoot problems
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Must work well in a team environment
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Ability to handle multiple priorities and projects at one time
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Demonstrated flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational needs
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Ability to self-initiate activities, and to work within timelines
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Works in conjunction with senior staff and independent work products are checked by senior staff. May perform some non-routine tasks requiring the exercise of independent judgment
Physical Requirements/Work Environments:
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Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time
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Ability to use a computer to complete assignments
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Ability to communicate with individuals and groups in person, by phone and telepresence
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While performing the duties of this job, the employee will typically work in a lab environment
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While performing the duties of this job, the employee may visit locations with varying temperatures and floor surfaces, and may be exposed to seasonal elements.
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Laboratory environment with possible exposure to hazardous materials
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Certain laboratories may operate at a high noise level
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)
$22.88 – $37.08
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:
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Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
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Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
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Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
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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
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Flexible spending accounts
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Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
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Relocation assistance
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Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
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Education assistance programs
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An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
We are all unique, from diverse 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/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. 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 ieo.mailbox@aero.org. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.
