The Thermal Protection System (TPS) Engineer will support the development, processing, and qualification of nonmetallic materials used for human spaceflight including thermal protection system spray-on-foam insulation (SOFI), ablatives, paints, primers, and coatings. To that end, the TPS Engineer will be responsible for:
Working with other engineers on the team and in the MSFC Non-Metallic Materials Branch (EM41) to plan the work in support of project objectives.
Developing detailed instructions and track progress in the Solumina work request system.
Working with TPS Technicians to safely execute the work and collect necessary data.
Evaluating data, reporting results, and closing out work orders.
Routinely communicating information regarding work status, risks, problems, and proposed actions with team personnel, MSFC customers, and ASEG management.
Make technical recommendations and process improvement suggestions where appropriate.
Mentor and advise junior engineers.
Job Requirements:
A degree in Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or similar engineering/physical science field and at least 10 years of applicable industry experience is required. A degree from an ABET accredited university is preferred. An advanced degree is preferred and will count toward the applicable experience. Typically, educational requirements are the equivalent of a Ph.D. with a minimum 4 years of experience; MS with at least 8 years of experience, or a BS with at least 10 years of experience.
Direct industry experience with Thermal Protection System materials is required.
Experience with SOFI is preferred.
Desired Qualifications:
The successful candidate will also have some of the following qualifications:
Experience processing and manufacturing nonmetallic materials such as ASTM test methods, spraying methods, adhesive bonding, critical cleaning, machining, and precision measurement.
Experience managing small to medium-sized projects with respect to overseeing technical objectives, schedule, and/or resources.
A demonstrated history of technical innovation and process improvement.
A demonstrated ability to solve complex problems pertaining to design, development, analysis, integration, evaluation, testing, and verification of thermal protection systems.
Experience with relevant software packages such as Solumina and Labview.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
