Research Mechanic

Overview

The Test Facilities Operation, Maintenance and Engineering (TFOME) team at the NASA Glenn Research Center, Neil

A. Armstrong Test Facility in Sandusky, Ohio is searching for a Research Facility Mechanic. TFOME is dedicated to excellence in service and to providing outstanding technical opportunities for our employees. We specialize in providing engineering and technical services in the areas of aero/space propulsion and power test facilities to NASA Glenn.

The hourly rate for this position is $39.40 per hour. Factors that may affect starting pay include geography, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications.

Amentum offers the following benefits, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: medical, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; life insurance; long‑term and short‑term disability insurance; 11 holiday days of paid time off; 56 days paid sick and accrued PTO; and parental leave.

• Weld horizontally, overhead, and vertically using oxy‑acetylene, AC‑DC electric arc, MIG, and TIG on materials such as stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminum, copper, and brass.
• Operate machine tools (drill press, power hacksaw, band saw, shears, pipe threaders, brakes, rollers, lathes, mills, grinders) and small power tools (air wrenches, drills, grinders).
• Lay out and build complex tubing systems using flaring machines and tubing benders.
• Disassemble, repair, reassemble, and verify valves and pressure regulators; ensure compatibility with flow media properties, pressure, and temperature.
• Operate hydraulic and high‑pressure gas systems, including gas tubs, pressure reduction stations, pumps, and seals.
• Use environmental test chambers, mass spectrometer leak detectors, and vacuum systems.
• Assist in installing and operating intricate research test packages across test facilities.
• Fabricate, install, operate, and maintain mechanical control test panels and special test equipment.
• Operate, maintain, and calibrate leak detection systems.
• Maintain mechanical vacuum pumping equipment, diffusion pumps, cryo‑pumps, steam ejector systems, heat exchangers, and cryogenic systems.
• Inspect and evaluate mechanical equipment and facility operating systems; recommend maintenance and repair actions.
• Fabricate, install, and operate cryogenic systems with liquid hydrogen, liquid oxygen, liquid nitrogen, or liquid helium.
• Develop, review, and analyze engineering designs; produce design specifications and parts lists.
• Conduct tests or experiments, adapt equipment, record data, analyze results, and prepare test reports.

• Physical: work from ladders, scaff descend, catwalks, man‑lifts, cranes, suspended platforms or cages; bend, stand, stoop, kneel, or remain prone for extended periods.
• Operate in confined spaces, high or hot temperatures, dusty, noisy, greasy, and variable weather conditions.
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs; push and pull heavy objects; use hearing, vision, and respiratory protection.
• One eye correctable to 20/20; distinguish eight‑color panels.
• Operate up to 1½‑ton trucks, forklifts, man‑lifts (JLG, scissor lifts, bucket truck), cranes, mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic hand tools.
• Adhere to company policies and procedures; work in a team‑oriented environment.

• Journeyman certificate in Research Laboratory Mechanic skills or equivalent mechanical trade or an Associate of Applied Science in Engineering Technology with 2–4 years of related experience.
• 'Working knowledge of research test facility operation and maintenance.'
• Mechanical technical effort on test laboratory, facility, and research hardware.
• Experience operating overhead cranes, bucket trucks, man‑lifts, forklifts, and portable cranes.
• Welding proficiency and familiarity with mechanical design and analysis.

Entry level

Full‑time

Management and Manufacturing;
Defense and Space Manufacturing industry