Thermal Protection System (TPS) Technician (ET5)
Overview
The Non-Metallic Materials and Space Environmental Effects Team is seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Thermal Protection System (TPS) Technician to support the application, processing, and documentation of aerospace thermal protection materials.
Key Responsibilities
Apply aerospace insulative spray foams, coatings, and paints following controlled procedures and engineering instructions.
Perform pour-foam mixing, dispensing, and curing operations, including mold preparation and adhesive application.
Conduct surface preparation and masking operations on flight and development hardware to ensure proper material adhesion and quality.
Operate shop tools and perform light machining required for fixture preparation, sample fabrication, and TPS processing support.
Follow detailed work instructions, material process specifications, and quality documentation requirements.
Maintain accurate process documentation, including material traceability, environmental conditions, and equipment usage logs.
Assist in setup, operation, and troubleshooting of automated or semi-automated spray equipment and mixing/dispensing tools.
Support maintenance of laboratory equipment, consumable tracking, safety compliance, and cleanliness standards.
Document work performed, recording observations, deviations, and configuration changes with high accuracy.
Assist engineers with test article preparation, prototype TPS development, and continuous improvement of material processing workflows.
Minimum Qualifications
Typically, educational requirement is a High School diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) or equivalent; candidate must have at least 10 years of experience and continuing education, or an associate’s degree or equivalent and at least 6 years of experience that proves mechanical aptitude and ability to work effectively without direct supervision.
Hands-on experience in laboratory, shop, coating, painting, or materials processing environments.
Ability to follow detailed procedures, safety protocols, and engineering instructions accurately.
Familiarity with spray systems, adhesives, coatings, or polymer-based materials, or willingness to learn.
Experience using measurement tools, basic machining tools, and standard laboratory/shop equipment.
Basic computer skills and comfort with electronic documentation systems.
Must be a US Citizen and have a STAR ID.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience applying aerospace foams, coatings, adhesives, or similar TPS materials.
Background in coating application, paint booth operation, mask-and-prep work, or polymer processing.
Prior work involving machining, fixture fabrication, or precision hardware preparation.
Experience operating automated mixing, spraying, or dispensing equipment.
Familiarity with non-metallic materials, including foams, polymers, adhesives, and elastomers.
Physical Requirements
Work is primarily performed in a shop or laboratory environment supporting material processing, machining, and related activities, requiring standing for extended periods and use of appropriate PPE such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and hearing protection.
Occasional work in full Tyvek (“bunny suit”) protective gear and respirator is required when handling specific foam, coating, or adhesive systems.
Work Environment
Work will be performed primarily in indoor labs (80%) and in a general office environment (15%).
Occasional work outdoors is required (5% or less).
Compensation & Benefits
This is an hourly, overtime-eligible position that falls under the Service Contract Act (SCA).
In accordance with the Health and Welfare provisions of the SCA, and in addition to your base hourly rate, you may be eligible to receive an additional health and welfare payment for each hour you work to ensure compliance with the minimums set forth by the act.
The amount you are entitled to receive will vary depending upon the fringe benefits you select now and in the future.
Compensation Details: ET5
The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.
Benefits Overview: Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off and holidays
Retail benefits (including 401(k) matching)
Educational reimbursement
Parental leave
Employee stock purchase plan
Tax-saving options
Disability and life insurance
Pet insurance