Senior X-ray Imaging Research Scientist

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 Microelectronics Technology Department (MTD) at The Aerospace Corporation conducts basic and applied research in aerospace parts for space applications, and provides technical support to national security space programs.The MTD is seeking a Senior X-ray Imaging Research Scientist (Research Scientist/ Senior Scientist - Signal & Image Process Engineering & Physics) to support investigations of aerospace parts' reliability and physics of failure in advanced devices, materials, and processes for space applications. S/hewill perform materials and device characterization to identify root cause of failure by various techniques including X-ray radiography and computed tomography. The staff member will apply and develop techniques for data and image analysis of X-ray computed tomography data and to enhance perceptivity of failures and anomalies in devices. S/he must also exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills and desire to work in an environment requiring independence as well as project leadership and teamwork.

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

• Conduct non-destructive fault isolation and construction analysis of aerospace parts: microelectronics, 3D-printed materials, and machined parts using X-ray CT machines
• Collect and interpret X-ray tomography data, and occasionally with customers
• Provide responsive technical support to national security space programs
• Work with contractors on the handling of delicate flight hardware
• Develop or evaluate new tools for X-ray data and image acquisition or analysis
• Conduct innovative basic and applied research to advance the scientific community's knowledge in X-ray imaging
• Work with XCT tools or analysis software vendors to debug their tools

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for Research Scientist - Signal & Image Process Engineering and Physics :

• PhD degree in electrical engineering , physics, chemistry, computer science, material science, or related fields is required
• A minimum of ( 6) or more years of increasingly responsible and relevant professional experience in electrical engineering , physics, chemistry, computer science, material science is required
• Deep understanding of X-ray radiography imaging techniques, and detector physics
• Understanding of computational analysis techniques for image and tomography analysis
• Strong interpersonal skills, ability to effectively convey technical information to non-technical personnel via oral and written forms
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

I n addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Senior Scientist - Signal & Image Process Engineering & Physics include :

• A minimum of ( 12) or more years of increasingly responsible and relevant professional experience conducting nondestructive evaluations is required

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Candidates should have a strong background in one or more of the following areas: X-ray phase contrast imaging, spectral imaging, and laminography
• Experience with volumetric imaging software (e.g. Volume Graphics, Dragonfly), and iterative reconstruction methods is strongly desired
• Familiarity with 3D printing and CAD
• Proficient in Python, MATLAB, and/or C/C++
• Familiarity with using machine learning methods for image analysis/anomaly identification
• A current and active Secret or 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)
$129,000.00 - $249,600.00

Pay Basis: Annual

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 .