Thermal Protection System; TPS Technician; Non‑Metallics

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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. This role focuses on spraying insulative aerospace foams, applying aerospace coatings/paints, dispensing pour‑foams and adhesives, performing surface preparation and masking, and executing precision machining tasks. The technician will follow detailed instructions and procedures while supporting TPS processing in a laboratory environment, contributing directly to flight and development hardware.

• 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.

• High School diploma or GED or equivalent; at least 15 years of experience OR an associate’s degree and at least 10 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 United States citizen and have a STAR .

• 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.

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. These tasks may involve elevated heat and physical discomfort but are broken up into rotational breaks.

Short periods of sitting at a computer or participating in meetings will also be required.

Work…