Senior Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) Engineer

Amentum•Houston, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Senior Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) Engineer to provide technical leadership and strategic insight in support of current and next-generation spacecraft programs. This role is ideal for a subject matter expert with a strong background in TPS design, analysis, and testing, and a proven track record of contributing to mission-critical aerospace systems. As a senior technical contributor, you will help shape the direction of TPS technology development, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and provide expert guidance during high-stakes decision-making for NASA programs. The scope of this position spans materials innovation, high-temperature testing, thermal modeling, and system-level integration.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related engineering discipline from an accredited institution.
15+ years of relevant experience in aerospace engineering, with a focus on thermal protection systems.
Extensive experience in TPS design, analysis, and testing, with a deep understanding of material behavior in high-enthalpy environments.
Demonstrated excellence in technical communication
Proven experience in TPS integration and flight certification, including system-level verification and validation processes.
Experience supporting multidisciplinary technical reviews and serving as a TPS subject‑matter expert for program‑level decision boards.

Nice To Haves

Deep understanding of current and emerging challenges, gaps, and mission needs driving TPS development for future spacecraft
Knowledge of the breadth of TPS materials including ablative and reusable TPS materials, as well as hot structure technologies
Familiarity with post‑flight TPS reconstruction, anomaly forensics, and correlation of flight data with ground‑test results
Comfortable serving as a technical authority that represents the TPS discipline to external stakeholders / collaborators

Responsibilities

Act as a focal point for coordinating the external TPS community across commercial and defense TPS development and testing
Provide expert guidance on TPS development and qualification of advanced TPS materials and coatings to meet the demands of future crewed and uncrewed missions.
Assist with interpreting high-enthalpy testing campaigns (arc jet, ICP torch, etc.) to validate TPS performance under extreme conditions.
Support development and maintenance of a TPS technology roadmap, ensuring alignment with program goals and future mission needs.
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the strategic planning of TPS R&D initiatives.