Softgoods Engineering Technologist

Job Description - Softgoods Engineering Technologist (ADV
000BN
5)

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the universe's origins, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? We need you to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe, envision, shape, and deliver systems that enable space exploration while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do and need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for NASA’s pursuits in deep space exploration.

The Softgoods Engineering Technologist will:

• Design, develop, fabricate, and support testing of new and innovative functional softgoods articles for advanced exploration space suits and ancillary support softgoods items for the Advanced Suit Team.
• Work at a high level of technical proficiency and with detailed attention to craftsmanship and presentation.
• Collaborate and communicate with engineers, technicians, and other designers to understand requirements for working on a variety of suited space systems and hardware.
• Clearly and thoroughly present design concepts and considerations.
• Take ownership of design tasks and show initiative to complete projects.
• Perform machine maintenance, repair, and custom modifications to tailor the machines for unique operations as required.
• Create patterns and develop mockups for verifying fit and function of softgoods articles.
• Interpret fabrication drawings to assemble sewn products and other softgoods.
• Document any new design work and clearly define process and techniques.
• Seek out new manufacturing techniques and innovative materials.
• Keep the lab spaces clean, organized, and well maintained.
• Occasionally travel to other NASA centers or contractors to perform softgoods fabrication and installation.
• Be able to lift and transport materials and equipment.
• Be able to work in confined spaces, climb stairs, steps, and ladders.
• Perform other duties as required.

• Typically requires a HS diploma and 15 years of experience or a BS in Engineering Technology or related field and 5 years of experience.
• Experience in a soft goods development lab environment with emphasis in soft goods design and fabrication.
• Demonstrated capability to successfully devise solutions to complex design challenges independently and by soliciting inputs from other technical experts.
• Expertise in a wide range of hands‑on fabrication techniques and sewing processes – sewing machines, laser cutters, fabric welders, 3D printers, bandsaws, drills, hand tools, etc.
• Demonstrated success working with a cross‑disciplinary team.
• Proficiency utilizing CAD programs and other software such as Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Experience in Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, and Rhino 8.

• A BA, BFA, or BS in Industrial Design, Apparel Design, or equivalent is desired.
• Experience in aerospace product design processes including ability to read, understand, and create fabrication drawings.
• Experience with fabricating processes for prototyping softgoods products.
• Familiarity with softgoods article and textiles testing procedures.
• Ancillary experience in any number of manufacturing, testing, or design processes that could be beneficial to furthering the development of advanced space suit technologies.
• Understanding of materials characteristics and properties of advanced space grade textiles and other materials.
• Familiarity with the NASA/JSC Softgoods design and development and the JETS Engineering Life Cycle processes.

• Excellent personal and professional career growth.
• 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off), when applicable.
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Residency may be a requirement for this position.
• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
• Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised.

Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on task.

Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of time). May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of time).

Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, printer, etc.).

Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical. Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements.

Professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation. Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk or hazard to the employee or others.