Thermal Protection Systems Engineer

Join to apply for the Thermal Protection Systems Engineer role at Barrios Technology Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? If you are, we need you! We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. Our long‑term client relationship with Amentum has led to a need for a Thermal Protection Systems Engineer (TPS) to join Barrios, a teammate company supporting current and advanced spacecraft programs. The scope of this role may include materials development, testing, thermal analysis, and system management. Specific duties will depend on need and applicant experience. Position level: We are actively searching for qualified candidates for this potential opening; however, we do not have assurance at this time when the position will be finalized and opened. Because we believe the position will be approved soon, we are proceeding with identifying qualified candidates and conducting interviews. We reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised. Responsibilities Develop new, higher capability TPS materials and coatings to advance future mission capabilities Conduct laboratory and high‑temperature testing of TPS materials in support of design, development, test and evaluation Plan testing and analyze results from high enthalpy test facilities (arc jet, inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch, etc.) Perform thermal analysis of spacecraft thermal protection systems using a suite of analytical tools in support of design, development, test and evaluation Be responsible for ensuring the function and safety of the TPS for NASA programs while supporting real‑time mission operations and decision making on critical TPS issues Required Education/Experience/Skills Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and a minimum of 2‑5 years of experience in the field or in a related area BS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or comparable engineering discipline from an accredited engineering school Experience with programming Experience working in laboratory environments Strong technical writing and presentation skills, able to articulate conclusions and defend them when challenged Excellent communication and teamwork skills Preferred Education/Experience/Skills Knowledge of aerothermal environments, including high‑temperature gas dynamics and aerodynamics Experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) interpretation/generation Understanding of TPS physics under high enthalpy flow (ablation, multi‑phase equilibria, radiative transport) Experience with thermal response codes such as CHAR, FIAT, or PATO Experience with 3D Modeling software Familiarity with ablators, reusable TPS, and hot structure materials High enthalpy test experience in facilities such as arc jets or inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torches Experience managing complex spacecraft systems/projects Ability to clearly communicate robust technical positions on TPS matters affecting human spaceflight Willingness to serve as focal point for mission support and rapid decision‑making in critical mission operational environments Essential Requirements Must be a U.S. Citizen and successfully complete a U.S. government background investigation Post‑offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol as outlined in our Drug‑Free Workplace policy Work may involve sitting for extended periods May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs Must have sufficient mobility to enter areas of test facilities where necessary Generally an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on task Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, fax, etc.) Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements when required Must be able to work in a team atmosphere Must demonstrate professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation Grooming and dress must be appropriate and must not pose a safety risk or hazard to the employee or others This position may require some commuting and traveling to other installations as needed Don’t miss out on this great opportunity; for immediate consideration, apply now! Barrios Technology is a drug‑free workplace, which is imperative to the health and safety of all employees and is required as a condition of receiving contracts from federal agencies. Please remember that regardless of the legalization of marijuana in several states, possession and use continues to be illegal under the federal Controlled Substances Act. This includes the use of some CBD products. A post‑offer, pre‑employment drug test is a condition of employment. Barrios Technology is an Equal Employment Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Information Technology Industries Professional Services #J-18808-Ljbffr Barrios Technology