Thermal Protection System (TPS) Manufacturing Engineer
Core
Own manufacturing processes for ablative and insulative thermal protection systems (TPS) for reentry capsules, ensuring heatshields survive reentry conditions.
Role type
Manufacturing Engineer (TPS)
Builds
Reentry capsules and C-PICA heat shields for Varda's W-Series vehicles
Domain
Aerospace / Thermal Protection Systems
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
ablative material processing, bonding, tiling, surface preparation, GD&T interpretation, manufacturing process documentation, root cause analysis, environmental conditioning, tooling assessment
Preferred skills
reentry vehicle TPS manufacturing, NDE methods for bonded tiles, material property knowledge (ablation rates, outgassing), robotic tile application, reentry thermal analysis
Technologies
PICA, AVCOAT, SLA-561, cork composites, ceramic tiles
Responsibilities
Develop and maintain work instructions and process specifications for TPS fabrication; Implement surface preparation, adhesive application, and cure cycle procedures; Collaborate with design engineers on DFM feedback for tile geometry and tooling; Define inspection and verification methods for TPS bonds and surface finish; Lead root cause analysis for TPS non-conformances; Assess and procure TPS-specific tooling
Seniority
L2 to Senior level