Materials & Processes Technologist II
NASA Jet Propulsion LaboratoryJob Details New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL. Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence. This opportunity is part of the Mechanical and Control Systems Division (3500) , which engages in research, technology development, and the creation of advanced mechanical, robotics, guidance & control, thermal, propulsion, and electronic packaging systems. We develop hardware and systems from early architecture through design, fabrication, subsystem and system-level integration and test. As a Level II Material and Processes Technologist, you will be working for the Thermal, Propulsion, and Materials Engineering Section (353) , which provides leadership and unique world-class expertise in a wide range of technologies and technical discipline areas, including chemical and electric propulsion, thermal, materials, contamination control, analytical chemistry, and multiphase flow. This section is responsible for design, analysis, fabrication, testing, integration, and operations of thermal and propulsion flight systems for JPL missions. This section is also responsible for providing materials and process engineering, contamination control engineering, materials testing, and analytical chemistry support to technology and flight programs. You will be a member of the Materials & Processes, Testing & Development Group (353M) and will report to the Group Supervisor. We are seeking an adaptable, high-energy professional who thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced setting and is comfortable navigating ambiguity. The ideal candidate possesses a risk-tolerant mindset, viewing challenges as opportunities to innovate, and excels in an evolving environment where decisiveness and agility are key to our collective success. Responsibilities Work independently on moderately complex materials engineering activities in day-to-day assignments under minor supervision; receiving instructions on new assignments. Research, propose, and lead the capture of new materials development opportunities. Support materials and processing in all phases of the hardware design, manufacture, integration and test, and Assembly, Test and Launch Operations (ATLO) activities. Work in a dynamic, critical, development test lab environment in JPL’s Materials Testing Laboratories service department. Provide materials laboratory support for thermal vacuum testing, surface preparation, adhesive bonding, metallography, and more as needed Partner with engineers to draft and execute sample testing plans. Interface with project engineers and scientists to achieve a seamless blending of engineering/science interface. Provide work direction to other personnel or part-time students, as needed. Partner with engineers to generate engineering and fabrication requirements, as needed. Exercise judgment in applying applicable policies, procedures and practices to new situations to determine appropriate action. Consult with others as needed and participate on teams within and outside of our own organization. Required (Minimum) Skills Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related technical discipline with a minimum of 3 years of related experience; Master's degree in sim…