Softgoods Engineering Technologist

About the role

We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for NASA's pursuits in deep space exploration. We have an exciting opportunity for a Softgoods Engineering Technologist to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX.

If selected, you will 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.

Responsibilities

• 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

Qualifications

Typically requires a HS diploma and 15 years of experience or BS in Engineering Technology or related field and 5 years of experience.

• 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 their 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

Preferred 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
• Experienced in Adobe, AutoCAD, and Rhino CAD software
• Familiar with the NASA/JSC Softgoods design and development and JETS Engineering Life Cycle processes

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Positive work-life balance
• 100% Employer paid insurance including: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability
• 11 paid holidays annually
• Generous PTO
• 401k after 12 months of service with employer match
• Education assistance
• Relocation assistance (if applicable)