Orion Thermal Protection System Engineer

Overview We are seeking a highly experienced aerospace engineer to provide subsystem management and technical leadership for the certification, testing, and build of the Orion Heatshield. This role will be based at Barrios , a partner company, and will serve as an agency‑level expert in spacecraft thermal design, analysis, and testing, requiring deep expertise in heat transfer, thermal protection systems, and spacecraft certification processes. Responsibilities Lead subsystem management for the Orion Heatshield, including certification planning, testing, and build oversight Oversee the development of thermal models, stress analyses, and test techniques to ensure successful heatshield certification Evaluate proposed designs and specifications for Avcoat blocks, identifying deficiencies and recommending alternative approaches to meet technical and safety requirements Direct thermal analysis and test efforts performed by NASA civil servants and contractors across multiple centers. Assess all heatshield related hardware designs and supporting data at critical design and hardware acceptance reviews Coordinate material property testing to support thermal and mechanical model development, delivering ablative thermal material models to Lockheed Martin for thermal sizing Define and manage test plans for arc jet and radiant heatshield test programs Provide on‑site technical expertise for block bonding and gap filling operations at Kennedy Space Center. Compile certification evidence, track verification completion, and develop certification of flight readiness statements Provide status and update reports to the Organization Chief and to Directorate management Provide technical authority and consultation on Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL) system design, testing, and analysis to programs across NASA Develop strategies for advancing EDL technologies for current and future exploration spacecraft Lead technical meetings, represent the organization at conferences, and build partnerships with industry, government agencies, and universities Mentor junior engineers, interns, and academic researchers in EDL systems analysis and testing Advise management on priorities, feasibility, and risks of EDL technology development projects Propose and develop innovative concepts in collaboration with industry and government partners to advance state‑of‑the‑art EDL technology Qualifications This position is posted at multiple levels. Depending on the candidate’s experience, position requirements and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised. Required Education/Experience/Skills: BS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering from an accredited engineering school Minimum of 5 years of engineering analysis experience related to thermal control systems Typically requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Engineering and normally possess 5-10 years of related experience License and certification may be required Experience working with complex, vehicle‑level models with multiple system interactions Excellent technical writing skills and the ability to use data to draw conclusions and support the conclusions when challenged Excellent presentation skills Demonstrate excellent communication skills in a team environment Other duties as assigned Preferred Education/Experience/Skills: Experience with developing and reviewing simulation models of spacecraft hardware and systems at varying levels of fidelity ranging from detailed, first‑principle models to more descriptive lumped‑parameter models Experience with flight hardware test plan development and execution Experience with requirements definition and validation of space flight hardware Knowledge of programming in one or more of the following: Python or MATLAB 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 put forward a professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others This position may require some commuting and traveling to other installations as needed Barrios Technology is a drug‑free workplace. Please remember that, regardless of the legalization of marijuana in several states, possession and use continue 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 Opportunity 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr