Section Manager - Microelectronics/Semiconductor Engineering: Device Reliability, Testing, and Analysis

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) within PSL is at the forefront of both basic and applied research in microelectronic and optoelectronic devices for space applications, while also delivering critical technical support to national security space programs. We are seeking a dynamic Section Manager (Microelectronics/Semiconductor Engineering) to spearhead our new section, dedicated to advancing the reliability, analysis, fabrication, and physics of failure of cutting-edge technologies-including advanced CMOS, SiGe, SOI, III-V semiconductors, optoelectronics, and nanoelectronics.

In this strategic leadership role, you will guide and mentor a team of talented professionals, coordinate closely with the department director and other counterpart organizations, and contribute hands-on research in these critical areas. This is an exceptional opportunity to be at the helm of transformative projects in a well-established department renowned for its expertise and innovation in supporting space and national security missions.

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

• Uses cutting edge scientific knowledge to solve critical national security problems with high impact

~65% individual contributor work, including the following:

• Interfaces with program offices to understand and perform work for customer needs
• Conducts and leads laboratory experiments, research projects, and analysis
• Prepares written and oral reports of research activities, issues, and accomplishments, and presents to higher management, subordinates, collaborators, customers and the broader scientific community in the form of project briefings, journal publications, deliverable reports, and conference presentations
• Participates in inter-organizational team assignments and educational activities

~35% management work, including the following:

• Supervises 2-10 technical staff, including supporting career development, transfers, and terminations. Conducts performance reviews and promotional actions, and determines hiring needs. Ensures corporate practices and security policies are followed
• Works with the department director and business manager to develop and implement organizational R&D and program support strategies, provide input for budgetary planning, communicate and implement corporate policies to staff, and perform administration of section business. Advises director of resource needs and capabilities
• Provides strategic and administrative guidance and mentorship to technical staff for the organization, execution, and work product documentation of technical activities
• Establishes interfaces with internal programs and external collaborators, provide assignments of staff to projects, monitoring and evaluation of project progress. Identifies opportunities for expanded and new business

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in physics, chemistry, electrical engineering, or a closely related discipline from a recognized institution is required, ensuring a strong theoretical and practical foundation for success in this role
• A minimum of (6) years of professional work experience in a related topic area is essential, demonstrating a robust track record of industry knowledge, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to drive impactful results
• In-depth knowledge of advanced microelectronic and optoelectronic devices, materials, and materials analysis.
• Demonstrated experience in device design and fabrication, test and characterization, reliability studies, failure analysis (including destructive physical analysis), radiation effects assessment, and the use of simulation and modeling tools.
• Proven ability to connect with and work effectively alongside a diverse range of customers, programs, and ETG organizations.
• Strong aptitude for establishing and maintaining effective working relationships across all levels of customer organizations and internal corporate teams.
• Highly motivated and goal-oriented, with exceptional interpersonal skills that drive success in inter-organizational and interdisciplinary teamwork
• Willing to travel occasionally (approx. every-other month) for program support (as needed)
• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain Secret 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:

• PhD degree is strongly preferred, underscoring a deep theoretical and research-oriented foundation for advanced problem-solving
• A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible professional engineering or scientific experience, demonstrating a proven track record of technical leadership and innovation is preferred
• Experience in technical projects or program leadership is highly desirable, indicating the ability to successfully manage complex initiatives and drive cross-functional collaboration
• Candidates should have a robust background in one or more of the following areas:
  
  • Microelectronic radiation effects and reliability
  • CMOS and semiconductor device operation, including physics of failure (e.g., TDDB, electromigration, hot carrier injection, BTI)
  • Microelectronic device cleanroom processing, fabrication, and device modeling
  • Laser and detector diode technology
  • Physical analysis techniques such as X-ray computed tomography or FIB/SEM (destructive physical analysis)
  • Hardware assurance methodologies, including counterfeit detection
  • Applications of these technologies in relevant fields
• Experience supporting satellite programs, particularly on issues related to current or emerging space technologies, is strongly desired
• A current and active TS/SCI is 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)
$147,600.00 - $221,400.00

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 or by email at . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.