Softgoods Engineering Technologist

Amentum•Houston, TX

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Softgoods Engineering Technologist designs, develops, and fabricates functional softgoods for human spaceflight, including stowage solutions, structural inflatables, ancillary spacesuit equipment, thermal blankets, and other deep-space products. The role works with engineers and designers to understand system and hardware requirements, presents design concepts and considerations, and takes ownership of assigned design work. It also involves creating patterns and mockups to verify fit and function, interpreting and reviewing fabrication drawings, and seeking innovative materials and manufacturing techniques. The position includes maintaining, repairing, and modifying sewing machines for specialized stitching operations, as well as fabricating and installing softgoods. Occasional travel to other NASA centers may be required. Work is generally in an office environment but may involve indoor or outdoor work depending on the task. The position may require sitting or standing for extended periods, lifting and carrying up to 25 pounds, and working in confined spaces or on steps and ladders. A 9/80 work schedule may apply. Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency may be required, and candidates must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.

Requirements

Typically, a high school diploma and 5 years of experience, or a bachelor's degree in Engineering Technology or a related field.
At least 3 years of experience in a softgoods lab environment, with emphasis on softgoods design and fabrication.
Ability to independently devise solutions to complex design problems and solicit input from other technical experts.
Hands-on fabrication expertise with a range of equipment, such as sewing machines, laser cutters, fabric welders, 3D printers, band saws, and drills.
Demonstrated success working with a team.
Proficiency with Adobe, AutoCAD, and Rhino CAD software.
Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.
Ability to work in confined spaces and climb steps and ladders.
Ability to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
Proof of U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency may be required.

Nice To Haves

BA, BFA, or BS in Industrial Design or equivalent.
Experience with aerospace product design processes, including reading, understanding, and creating fabrication drawings.
Experience fabricating prototypes and flight softgoods products.
Experience with Adobe, AutoCAD, and Rhino CAD software.
Familiarity with NASA/JSC Softgoods design and development and JETS Engineering Life Cycle processes.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and fabricate functional softgoods for manned spaceflight, including stowage solutions, structural inflatables, ancillary spacesuit equipment, thermal blankets, and deep-space products.
Present design concepts and considerations clearly and thoroughly.
Collaborate with engineers and designers to understand requirements for systems and hardware.
Take ownership and initiative to complete softgoods design tasks.
Perform sewing machine maintenance, repairs, and custom modifications for unique stitching operations.
Create patterns and develop mockups to verify fit and function of softgoods articles.
Interpret fabrication drawings to assemble sewn products and review drawings before final release for flight fabrication.
Seek new manufacturing techniques and innovative materials.
Travel occasionally to other NASA centers for softgoods fabrication and installation.
Lift and transport materials and equipment, and work in confined spaces and on steps and ladders.
Perform other duties as required.
Maintain regular attendance and adjust work schedules to meet peak periods and surge requirements.
Demonstrate professional behavior that promotes productivity, teamwork, and cooperation.