Thermal Protection System; TPS Integration Lead Security Clearance

Position: Thermal Protection System (TPS) Integration Lead with Security Clearance
Job Number 732060

Description:

Space is a critical domain, connecting our technologies, our security and our humanity. While others view space as a destination, we see it as a realm of possibilities, where we can do more - we can innovate, invest, inspire and integrate our capabilities to transform the future. At Lockheed Martin Space, we aim to harness the full potential of space to cultivate innovation, reduce costs, and push the boundaries of what technology can achieve.

We're creating future-ready solutions, focusing on resiliency and urgency through our 21st Century Security® vision. We're erasing boundaries and forming partnerships across industries and around the world. We're advancing spacecraft and the workforce to fuel the next generation. And we're reimagining how space can connect us, ensuring security and prosperity. Join us in shaping a new era in space and find a career that's built for you.

This position supports spacecraft, missile, hypersonic, or other advanced aerospace platforms operating in extreme and highly dynamic environments. If you're looking for ownership, influence, and the opportunity to solve complex, high-consequence engineering challenges - this role is built for you. The NGI Program is seeking a Thermal Protection System Integration Lead to oversee the All Up Round (AUR) TPS architecture and ensure a fully compliant TPS solution across all NGI components.

This role reports to the Booster Integrated Product Team (IPT) and will work closely with the Flight Sciences IPT analysis leads and the affected component Certified Principal Engineers (CPEs).

Key Responsibilities
• Lead TPS integration across the AUR, ensuring compliance with program requirements.
• Collaborate with Flight Sciences IPT analysts and component CPEs to develop and validate TPS designs.
• Run independent sizing models and generate material models in FIAT, correlating results with test data.
• Conduct trade studies for various components and present recommendations to Engineering Review Boards.
• Manage TPS test campaigns end to end: issue acquisition requests, submit work orders to LM Labs, and coordinate subcontracted testing.
• Support requirement verification using DOORS and maintain traceability throughout the development lifecycle.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related technical field or equivalent hands on experience
• Minimum 3 years of full time professional engineering experience in a mechanical or aerospace environment.
• Deep understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals, including structural analysis, material properties, stress/strain evaluation, and engineering calculation methods.
• Proven track record in mechanical design and/or manufacturing, with extensive experience interpreting and applying detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and bill of materials.
• Advanced proficiency with modern CAD platforms (e.g., Creo, I DEAS, Solid Works, Catia) and familiarity with model based product definition (MBD) practices to create, validate, and manage digital product data.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in fast changing environments, quickly adjusting to evolving requirements, shifting priorities, and dynamic project schedules while maintaining high quality deliverables.
• Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills; capable of articulating complex technical concepts clearly. Proven ability to build strong, collaborative relationships with internal teams and external customers, ensuring alignment and successful project outcomes.
• US Citizenship required with active DOD Secret security clearance prior to start Desired

Skills:

• Extensive experience with ablative TPS materials (e.g., cork, Vamac, EPDM, molded rubber).
• Proficiency in FIAT for sizing and material modeling; ability to correlate models with test data.
• Knowledge of G Law erosion models for particle impact analysis.
• Expertise designing TPS solutions that address environmental challenges such as humidity, long term storage, and fungal growth.
• Familiarity with electrostatic phenomena affecting TPS (static discharge,…