Job Description
Job Title:  Research Science Asc Mgr
Posting Start Date:  9/18/26

Standard Job Description

We are searching for a Controls Research Science Associate Manager to join our exceptional team. In this role you will support optical and directed energy programs by performing and leading a team that conducts research, analysis, design and development of control systems algorithms and software. Some areas of responsibility include:

• Control system architecture design and implementation for spacecraft, missiles, and directed energy missions
• Independently define, lead, and manage highly challenging and innovative technical activities related to novel control systems design, build, and field testing

Key knowledge areas include:

• Wavefront control and adaptive optics
• Advanced control and stabilization concepts
• Jitter/beamwalk control
• Target detection, tracking, and filtering

We are seeking someone who demonstrates genuine interest in these subjects and who is eager to be mentor others in the field. You should demonstrate the ability able to work effectively and thrive in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment. You will have strong communication skills, an excellent analytic skill set enjoy working in a dynamic and multi-disciplinary environment.

Standard Job Description Manages generic scientific experiments, investigations, observations and related research studies into the nature and operation of natural phenomena in a particular field, using the scientific methods. Responsible for coordinating subordinate employee recruitment, selection and training, performance assessment, work assignments, salary, and recognition/disciplinary actions. Directs development of theories for understanding, characterizing and organizing natural phenomena into a systematic and meaningful pattern for the benefit of project advancement and emerging technologies. May oversee intellectual property evaluations and development of patent applications. May direct interdepartmental activities and research efforts.  Proficient in AI prompting as it applies to this position and practice. 

Basic Qualifications

  • Degree in physics or related engineering field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience or familiarity with control system design and analysis for spacecraft, missiles, or directed energy systems.
  • Experience with laboratory environment and test bed development
  • Leadership experience, either in an informal management role, as a technical lead, or subsystem/work package lead
  • Fluency with MATLAB and/or Simulink
  • Software and Lab programming (e.g. Labview, C/C++ or similar)
  • US Citizenship with the ability to acquire and maintain a TS security clearance

Desired Skills

  • Masters degree in related field
  • Experience with electro-optical sensors and/or optical systems or lasers
  • Experience with control system design and analysis of laser or directed energy systems.
  • Exposure to control of optical systems including adaptive optics, fast steering mirrors, gimbal systems, jitter/beamwalk controls, target acquisition and tracking.
  • Experience on R&D proposals include authoring technical and management/cost volumes
  • Prior leadership and management of research and development programs, subsystems, or work packages
  • US Citizenship with the ability to acquire and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance

Pay Information

GeoZone Definition: GeoZones are geographic groupings created by Lockheed Martin to align compensation ranges with regional labor markets and cost-of-labor differences across the United States. Locations are assigned a Geo Zone based on the primary work location of the role. 

  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 1): $150800.00 - $280000.00 
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Sunnyvale CA; Pal Alto, CA; New York City metropolitan area; Newark, New Jersey; etc.
  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 2): $135700.00 - $251900.00 
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Denver, CO; King of Prussia, PA; Stratford, CT; Moorestown, NJ; etc.
  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 3): $120600.00 - $224000.00
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Dallas–Fort Worth, TX; Orlando, FL; Grand Prairie, TX; Marietta, GA; etc.
  • Full-time salary range (GEOZONE 4): $108600.00 - $201600.00
    • Includes metropolitan areas such as Camden, AR; Lexington, KY; Lufkin, TX; etc. 

At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow—both professionally and personally.

The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. 
Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.  

Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.

  • Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
  • For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.