Softgoods Engineering Technologist

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the universe's origins, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. Bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable space exploration while benefiting people here on Earth.

About the role

The Softgoods Engineering Technologist will design, develop, and fabricate new and innovative functional softgoods articles for the manned spaceflight program, including stowage solutions, structural inflatables, ancillary space suit equipment, thermal blankets, and general deep space product design.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and fabricate new and innovative functional softgoods articles for the manned spaceflight program such as stowage solutions, structural inflatables, ancillary space suit equipment, thermal blankets, and general deep space product design
• Clearly and thoroughly present design concepts and considerations
• Collaborate with engineers and designers to understand requirements of working on a variety of systems and hardware
• Take ownership and show initiative to complete softgoods design tasks
• Perform sewing machine maintenance, repair, and custom modifications to tailor the sewing machine for unique stitching operations
• Create patterns and develop mockups for verifying fit and function of softgood articles
• Interpret fabrication drawings to assemble sewn products, and review fabrication drawings before final release for flight fabrication
• Seek new manufacturing techniques and innovative materials
• Occasionally travel to other NASA centers to perform softgoods fabrication and installation
• Ability to lift and transport materials and equipment
• Ability to work in confined spaces, scale steps and ladders
• Perform other duties as required

Requirements

• Typically requires a HS diploma and 5 years of experience or BS in Engineering Technology or related field
• 3+ years' experience in a softgoods lab environment with emphasis in softgoods design and fabrication
• Demonstrated capability to independently devise solutions to complex design problems by your own efforts, and by soliciting inputs from other technical experts
• Expertise in a wide range of hands-on fabrication – sewing machines, laser cutters, fabric welders, 3D printers, band saws, drills, etc.
• Demonstrated success working with a team
• Proficiency utilizing Adobe, AutoCAD, and Rhino CAD software
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency may be a requirement for this position
• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation

Qualifications

• BA, BFA, or BS in Industrial Design or equivalent is desired
• Experienced in aerospace product design processes including ability to read, understand, and create fabrication drawings
• Experienced with fabricating processes for prototyping and flight softgood products
• Familiar with the NASA/JSC Softgoods design and development and JETS Engineering Life Cycle processes

Work Environment

• Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on task
• Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of time)
• May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of time)
• Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, printer, etc.)
• Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical
• Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements

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