Spacesuit Technologist

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, 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 the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth.

About the Role

This position supports NASA’s Orion Crew Survival Systems (OCSS) project as a Spacesuit Technologist. The role focuses on the theory, operation, maintenance, and testing of OCSS hardware, including the Orion Crew Survival Suit, Emergency Breathing Oxygen Systems, Pressure Systems, and Survival Equipment. You will assist in fit checks, crew training, and vehicle ingress/egress operations, as well as support testing, documentation, and ground service equipment buildup.

Responsibilities

• Understand theory and operation of OCSS hardware, including cleaning requirements, maintenance, handling, and safety.
• Set up support equipment prior to testing and assist during fit checks and crew training events.
• Participate in pre/post-event briefings and support the Crew Survival Equipment lab schedule.
• Support Suit Test Subject and Crew training exercises, including long-duration events with physical demands.
• Understand Ground Support Hardware theory and operation.
• Provide required Work Authorizing Documentation and support drawing construction to meet project requirements.
• Support testing of OCSS hardware, including pressure systems, oxygen systems, and survival equipment.
• Assist in buildup and periodic recalibration of Ground Service Equipment.
• Support project management and engineers with OCSS Qualification testing and Pre-Delivery/Installation Acceptance Testing.
• Work in a team environment, reporting progress and issues to project management.
• Perform other duties as required.

Requirements

• Typically requires a high school diploma and 5 years of experience, or a BS in Engineering Technology or a related field.
• Experience with reviewing and following requirements documents, including functional requirements and verification success criteria.
• Experience with assembly, verification, testing, and operation of space system hardware.
• Prior experience with pressure systems, oxygen systems, or suit systems is a plus.
• Knowledge of space hardware concepts, practices, and procedures, including interpreting engineering drawings and using JSC Electronic Document System tools.
• Ability to support long-duration training events, including standing for extended periods and moderate lifting (up to 25 lbs).
• Ability to meet JSC Job-Related Medical Physical and Pressure Suit Technician/Hazardous Duty Launch and Landing Requirements.
• Ability to prepare written documents and verbally present at meetings.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office products.
• Experience with NASA flight processes, including Class I/II/III hardware.
• Familiarity with Johnson Space Center (JSC) organizations, processes, and procedures.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Residency may be required.
• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in assembly and test of spaceflight hardware and spacesuit systems.
• Familiarity with machine shop techniques and hardware manufacturing processes.
• Ability to perform hands-on testing and documentation, including Work Authorizing Documents and Test Preparation sheets.
• Ability to work independently.

Benefits

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

Pay

This is an hourly, overtime-eligible position under the Service Contract Act (SCA). Compensation includes a base hourly rate plus an additional health and welfare payment per hour worked, depending on fringe benefits selected. The compensation range varies by experience level (ET1-ET3).