Mechanical Engineering Technician (NASA Balloon Program)

Peraton • Palestine, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Peraton provides management and technical support for NASA’s scientific balloon program, which enables science missions for NASA and universities. Scientific balloon missions offer researchers inexpensive, quick, and long-duration access to near-space altitudes. These missions are significantly less costly than satellite missions and can support heavy experiments for extended periods, leading to significant scientific discoveries in various fields like cosmic rays, astronomy, and atmospheric sciences. The team at the Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility (CSBF) in Palestine, TX, is responsible for designing, analyzing, building, and assembling support hardware and balloon gondola payloads. They support launches from various locations in the US and globally, including Antarctica, Sweden, New Zealand, and Australia, and provide field support for launches and recoveries. The NBOC program is seeking an Engineering Technician to join the team in Palestine, Texas. The location offers a low cost of living with proximity to larger cities.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED certificate.
• Two years of related mechanical experience.
• Must be a US Citizen.
• Must be able to pass a background check to obtain a NASA Personal Identity Verification card (PIV) background check and drug screen.
• Must have or be able to obtain a passport.
• Ability to pass the National Science Foundation physical (Medical) requirement to work in Antarctica including latest FLU vaccinations.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge/experience with stick and heli-arc welding.
• Knowledge with machine shop tools and machines.
• Knowledge/experience with forklift and heavy equipment operation.
• Knowledge of methods and techniques involved with assembly and testing of mechanical hardware.
• Knowledge of basic mechanical theory and application.
• Completion of post-secondary degree or certificate may substitute for years of experience.
• Must possess or have the ability to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 3 years of employment.

Responsibilities

• Assists in fabrication, installation, and testing of mechanical units, systems, sub-systems, or models from specific drawings and schematic diagrams.
• Operates standard test equipment and instruments and records data.
• Performs preventative maintenance of light vehicles and equipment, documenting and filing records.
• Operates applicable equipment and performs functions to assist with the launch and recovery of scientific payloads and balloons.
• Supports field operations which could require travel for periods up to eight weeks or more several times a year both in the United States and overseas.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED