Journeyman Research Laboratory Mechanic (RLM) Technician - 8x6​/9x15 Wind Tunnels

Job Title

Test Facilities Operation, Maintenance and Engineering (TFOME) Contract at NASA Glenn Research Center

The TFOME contract at the NASA Glenn Research Center provides engineering and technical services in the aeronautics, space power and propulsion test facilities. We are currently looking for an experienced journeyman level mechanic to support our 8x6/9x15 Wind Tunnels. The Journeyman Level Mechanical Technician will apply technical knowledge to perform routine and non routine mechanical tasks following detailed work instructions. Performs such tasks as troubleshooting, modifying, and repairing of test related hardware & facility devices or assemblies.

Will be expected to use hand and machine tools on a regular basis in order to maintain complex mechanical components & facility systems related to the safe operations of high temperature fuel systems. Will train with existing facility technicians in the areas of hardware builds, set up of test articles & associated equipment, facility check sheets, and qualified facility operations.

Work schedules will involve rotating shifts and overtime as needed.

Performs mechanical-related technical effort on test laboratory, facility and/or research hardware and mechanical systems. Assists in the preparation and operation of the laboratory test apparatus or test facilities.

Duties and responsibilities include:

• Operating facility overhead crane, bucket trucks, man-lifts, forklifts, and portable cranes. Providing rigging for lifting equipment and material.
• Welding horizontally, overhead, and vertically using oxy-acetylene, AC-DC electric arc, M.I.G., and T.I.G. using a variety of materials.
• Operating large mechanical tools such as a drill press, power hacksaw, band saw, shears, pipe threaders, brakes, rollers, lathes, and grinders. Operating small power tools including air wenches, drills, grinders, etc.
• Laying out and building complex tubing systems using flaring machines and tubing benders.
• Disassembling, repairing, reassembling, and verifying various types of valves, valve operators, and pressure regulators.
• Operating hydraulic systems, high-pressure gas systems including gas tubers, pressure reduction stations, pressure pumps, and seals, etc.
• Working with environmental test chambers, mass spectrometer leak detectors, and vacuum systems.
• Assisting in the installation and operation of intricate research test packages in various test facilities.
• Fabricating, installing, operating, and maintaining mechanical control test panels, and special test equipment. Operating, maintaining, and calibrating leak detection systems.
• Performing general maintenance on mechanical vacuum pumping equipment, diffusion pumps, cryo-pumps, steam ejector systems, heat exchangers, and cryogenic vaporizers.
• Inspecting and evaluating mechanical equipment and facility operating systems. Making recommendations related to maintenance and repair.
• Fabricating, installing, and operating cryogenic systems including liquid hydrogen, liquid oxygen, liquid nitrogen, or liquid helium.

1. Minimum of 4 years working experience as a Journeyman Level Mechanic such as a maintenance mechanic, machine repair technician. Completion of a 4-year State approved apprenticeship program with a Journeyman's certificate highly desired or have equivalent vocational school training with sufficient combined work experience and skills.

2. Working knowledge of the operation and maintenance of research test facilities and associated equipment.

3. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions from engineering or supervision.

4. Ability to use own judgment and decisions to allow continuity of work flow.

5. Must be self-motivated and a "Team Player" with good interpersonal and communication skills.

6. Must be able to organize time and assignments to properly prioritize efforts for maximum effectiveness.