Materials Engineer, AST, Aerospace Ceramic Materials

As an Aerospace Ceramic Materials Engineer in the Thermal Protection Materials Branch, you will develop and apply theoretical models or advanced characterization or diagnostic methods to understand thermal protection materials performance supporting Orion, Human Landing Systems (HLS), and commercial partnerships. You will plan, coordinate and investigate atmospheric entry problems with respect to safety, reliability, and performance, and pursue collaboration and funding opportunities. Leads development of thermal protection system (TPS) materials competencies including computational modeling, advanced manufacturing, and characterization to understand TPS performance in mission environments and inform material selection. Leads meetings and prepares briefings for key project stakeholders, including Orion, Human Landing Systems (HLS), commercial partners and NASA leadership. Coordinates and directs diverse TPS activities to ensure that technologies under development are thoroughly advanced to satisfy current and future mission requirements Leads proposal efforts and interacts for the Agency with universities, private industry and other government entities. Aids in identifying, assessing, mitigating, and prioritizing TPS related technical risks in atmospheric entry projects and/or test campaigns. Performs pre-project planning such as: concept development, integration planning, and assesses feasibility, costs, and economics. Direct Hire Authority: These positions will be filled through the Office of Personnel Management's Direct Hire Authority. Category rating and veterans' preference will not be considered in evaluating applicants. For more information on Direct Hire Authority, please see: OPM Direct Hire Fact Sheet. Veterans: Under the provisions of Direct Hire Authority, veterans' preference does not apply. However, applicants who are eligible for veterans' preference are encouraged to include that information in their application and submit supporting documentation (i.e. DD-214, or other substantiating documents). For more information please see: Veterans' Preference information on the FedsHireVets website. You will be evaluated for this position based on how well you meet the qualifications and eligibility requirements listed in this vacancy announcement. To determine your qualifications and referral status, we may review your resume and supporting documentation and compare it against your responses to the assessment questionnaire. Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or assessment questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration. You will be assessed on the following competencies: Technical Competence Entry, Descent and Landing Materials Science and Engineering Thermal Systems NASA considers paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. NASA will not ask you to disclose criminal history record information during the application process or before we make a conditional/tentative offer of employment. If you apply for this position and are selected, NASA will conduct a suitability/security background investigation after you accept a tentative job offer. If you feel you are asked to disclose your criminal history before you accept a tentative offer and wish to file a complaint within 30 days, please contact: Agency-FCCJ@NASA.gov.