2025 Chemical Propulsion Research Engineer

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.

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. 

Work Model

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA within the Propulsion Science Department (PSD). 

PSD is looking for an ambitious Chemical Propulsion Research Engineer to join our group supporting customers in the rapidly evolving space business, particularly in experimental research and development in propulsion and high energy systems. We solve a wide range of chemical propulsion issues at various stages of application, from proof of concept to troubleshooting flight systems.

What You’ll Be Doing

• The successful applicant will be responsible for the development, test, and application of chemical propulsion technology in support of National Security and Civil Space Programs and space-related activities. 

• As a research scientist/engineer, you will execute advanced research and development programs in propulsion, chemical reaction kinetics and fluid dynamics, and detonation phenomena in compliance with established Safety Guidelines.

• You will establish and lead vigorous, Customer-supported research efforts utilizing the existing Propulsion Research Facility and Aerospace Laboratories as well as developing future capabilities to meet emerging needs.

• Active collaboration is encouraged with subject matter experts (SMEs) both within the Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) and the Engineering Technology Group (ETG) in the support of our colleagues in multiple Program Offices that utilize chemical propulsion.

• Innovation and Velocity are core to enabling Mission Success, in our dynamic and challenging environment.

• Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Ph.D. degree from an accredited program in physical chemistry, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, or mechanical engineering.

• 0-1 year of industry work experience

• Experience in chemistry, combustion, gas dynamics, and/or propulsion.

• Experience in experimental research and measurement, data acquisition, and data analysis.

• Strong communication and presentation skills and a publication record of accomplishment.

• Demonstrated coursework or research experience in Chemical Thermodynamics, Chemical Kinetics, Combustion, and Rocket Propulsion.

• Willing to travel domestically approx. 10% to support technical exchange with the aerospace community and customers

• Expertise in both shock wave and combustion areas, including chemical kinetics and detonations

• Capable of contributing to both experimental and theoretical aspects of shock waves, high temperature kinetics, and propulsion technology

• Knowledge or experience in spacecraft chemical/electric propulsion systems, experimental thruster testing, experimental diagnostics, and/or propellant chemistry

• Experience/expertise in advanced optical diagnostics such as laser diagnostic, high-speed Schlieren, emission spectroscopy.

• 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. 

How You Can Stand Out 

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

• GPA of 3.5 or higher 

• Active security clearance 

• Experience with laboratory data acquisition equipment and sensors is highly desired.

• Chemical laboratory experience and experience writing laboratory reports is highly desirable.

• Software skills such as LabView, Visual Basic, MatLab, Python, SolidWorks are desirable.

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 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********* or by email at . You can also review , as well as the .