Senior Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) Engineer to provide technical leadership and strategic insight in support of current and next-generation spacecraft programs. This role is ideal for a subject matter expert with a strong background in TPS design, analysis, and testing, and a proven track record of contributing to mission-critical aerospace systems.

Responsibilities

• Act as a focal point for coordinating the external TPS community across commercial and defense TPS development and testing
• Provide expert guidance on TPS development and qualification of advanced TPS materials and coatings to meet the demands of future crewed and uncrewed missions
• Assist with interpreting high-enthalpy testing campaigns (arc jet, ICP torch, etc.) to validate TPS performance under extreme conditions
• Support development and maintenance of a TPS technology roadmap, ensuring alignment with program goals and future mission needs
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the strategic planning of TPS R&D initiatives

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related engineering discipline from an accredited institution
• 15+ years of relevant experience in aerospace engineering, with a focus on thermal protection systems
• Extensive experience in TPS design, analysis, and testing, with a deep understanding of material behavior in high-enthalpy environments
• Demonstrated excellence in technical communication
• Proven experience in TPS integration and flight certification, including system-level verification and validation processes
• Experience supporting multidisciplinary technical reviews and serving as a TPS subject-matter expert for program-level decision boards

Qualifications

• Deep understanding of current and emerging challenges, gaps, and mission needs driving TPS development for future spacecraft
• Knowledge of the breadth of TPS materials including ablative and reusable TPS materials, as well as hot structure technologies
• Familiarity with post-flight TPS reconstruction, anomaly forensics, and correlation of flight data with ground-test results
• Comfortable serving as a technical authority that represents the TPS discipline to external stakeholders/collaborators

Benefits

• Excellent personal and professional career growth
• 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off), when applicable
• Onsite cafeteria (breakfast & lunch)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
• Educational reimbursement
• Parental leave
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Tax-saving options
• Disability and life insurance
• Pet insurance