Pyrotechnics Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

Job Summary

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily ofhighly-trainedmechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides nationalexpertisein the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls; robotics; electro-mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.

In this role in VSD, this person will support our Civil Systems Group who supports programs within NASA, NOAA, and the NNSA. This position will support NASA Energy Conversion Systems and serve as a Pyrotechnics Engineer (Engineering Specialist - Aeronautical & Mechanical Engineering) at Johnson Space Center for pyrotechnic systems, including all pyrotechnic devices and firing circuits. This position is included within a specialty that involves research, development, design, test, evaluation, production, flight certification, and application of pyrotechnic components, and systems for aerospace vehicles and ground support equipment. The work involves design, modeling / analysis, and development of pyrotechnic systems both individually and as parts of the vehicle or ground support equipment.

Work Model :

This is a full-time position based at Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX, which requires 100% onsite work.

What You’ll Be Doing

Managing the systems engineering and technical integration activities over the entire life cycle, including design, development, test, evaluation, verification, launch, on-orbit, and entry operations

Coordinating pyrotechnic phase reviews including baseline, production, and lot acceptance / certification for new pyrotechnic devices, including qualification for new vehicle use

Independently identifying technical needs and identifying solutions for problems that arise during hardware developmental and operational phases. Assisting in identifying root cause for anomalies and serves as the technical expert providing engineering recommendations, as required, for resolution of any associated problems or issues

Conducting independent or insight system analysis using finite element tools for hazard report assessments and technical feasibility analysis of reliable pyrotechnic devices for human-rated space applications

Assisting in directing a broad range of inter-disciplinary development, design and development, test, verification activities to ensure that system performance meets all system requirements

Assisting in the formulation of positions / recommendations including options and associated risks for pyrotechnic concepts, architectures, designs, and requirements tailoring

Coordinating with Safety and Mission Assurance on pyrotechnic safety measures to ensure quality, reliability, and performance of pyrotechnic devices

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements :

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering is required

A minimum of (6) or more years of increasingly responsible professional engineering / scientific experience, including experience in a systems engineering, program lifecycle, and program management environment is required

Skilled in using principles and practices involved in the definition, design, development, integration, test, manufacturing, and operations of pyrotechnic systems including all elements within a pyrotechnic system

Elements include but are not limited to, initiators, detonators, safe and arm devices, explosive transfer lines, pyro valves, riser cutters, reefing line cutters, shaped charges, separation bolts, frangible joints, frangible nuts, through bulkhead initiators, cartridge assemblies, and mechanically actuated devices

Demonstrated experience with pyrotechnic flight hardware qualification, certification, and acceptance tests

Knowledge of oversight required for Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) hardware over the development life cycle

Experienced in definition of pyrotechnic system architecture, component / device design, structural interfaces, NASA safety standards, pyrotechnic standards, and operational requirements

Skilled in systems engineering and scientific principles and practices of pyrotechnic systems for spacecraft development and evaluation, including cost / risk trades, design optimization, problem resolution and hardware enhancements or improvements

Ability to effectively utilize oral and written communication to express technical concepts and recommendations, including development of and briefing of decision packages and complex information in a succinct and polished manner to personnel at all technical and managerial levels

This position may require the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these :

Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering is strongly desired

Demonstrated successful experience performing or leading technical and programmatic tasks

Demonstrated expertise in performing or leading SEI analysis cycle tasks

Established success in management and leadership role experience

Proven ability to successfully work across multiple organizations that contribute to mission success is highly preferred

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple : every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who :

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include :

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.