Cryogenics Mechanical Engineer

Mclaurin Aerospace • Houston, TX

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Cryogenics Mechanical Engineer will join the JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, supporting NASA’s deep space exploration pursuits. The role performs engineering design and analysis for cryogenic components, vacuum-jacketed and warm piping systems, and associated mechanical systems. It also supports facility operations for 20 K helium systems and 80 K liquid nitrogen storage and distribution systems.

The engineer develops procurement and fabrication documentation, coordinates with vendors and fabricators, participates in design reviews, and witnesses key testing activities. Responsibilities also include troubleshooting, maintenance guidance, and technical oversight during equipment assembly, installation, and commissioning. The role prepares and participates in safety reviews, hazard analyses, operational procedures, and engineering review boards, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to present design and technical findings. This is an on-site position. Other duties may be assigned.

The position has been posted at multiple levels; candidates may be considered at any advertised level based on their experience, requirements, and business needs. A bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and at least two years of progressively responsible mechanical design experience are specified. U.S. citizenship and the ability to pass a comprehensive security background investigation are required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum two years of progressively responsible mechanical design experience.
• Experience with mechanical stress analysis of pressure components, mechanical equipment design, and hands-on system development.
• Knowledge of machining, welding, piping, and pipe-fitting practices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with MS Office tools.
• Ability to interact positively with and support contractors, vendors, and procurement professionals.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to pass a comprehensive security background investigation.

Nice To Haves

• Cryogenic piping system design, fluid flow and heat transfer analysis, and cryogenic materials knowledge.
• Experience with cold boxes, phase separators, heat exchangers, pumps, compressors, valves, and other cryogenic plant equipment.
• Familiarity with ASME BPVC VIII, ASME B31.3, NFPA, OSHA requirements, and national building codes.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD and analysis tools, including Creo, SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD, and ANSYS.
• Knowledge of high-vacuum systems and helium mass spectrometer leak detection.
• Experience with design and sizing of plant components such as heat exchangers, pumps, compressors, piping, valves, and relief devices.

Responsibilities

• Perform engineering design and analysis for cryogenic components, vacuum-jacketed and warm piping systems, and associated mechanical systems.
• Develop procurement and fabrication documentation, including Statements of Work, specifications, and engineering drawings.
• Coordinate with vendors and fabricators, participate in design reviews, and witness key testing activities.
• Support facility operations for 20 K helium systems and 80 K liquid nitrogen storage and distribution systems.
• Provide troubleshooting, maintenance guidance, and technical oversight during equipment assembly, installation, and commissioning.
• Prepare and participate in safety reviews, hazard analyses, operational procedures, and engineering review boards.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams and present design and technical findings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Positive work-life balance
• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, vision, life, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
• 11 paid holidays annually
• Generous PTO
• 401(k) after 12 months of service with employer match
• Education assistance
• Relocation assistance, if applicable

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level