ORION Thermal Protection System (TPS) Technician, Senior

ASRC Federal System Solutions (AFSS) is seeking a Thermal Protection System (TPS) Technician Senior to support Orion spacecraft processing operations at Kennedy Space Center.

This role is primarily focused on soft goods TPS (MLI and thermal barriers) supporting fabrication, installation, and validation of flight hardware, with secondary responsibilities supporting hard goods TPS (tile systems).

This position plays a key role in ensuring thermal protection integrity for crewed spaceflight, operating within a precision-driven ATLO environment.

Roles and Responsibilities

Major Focus – Soft Goods TPS (MLI / Thermal Barriers)

Fabricate, assemble, and install Multi-Layer Insulation (MLI) and thermal barrier systems for Orion flight hardware

Set up and operate industrial sewing machines for precision soft goods fabrication

Perform and support thermal barrier bonding operations

Review and validate MLI and thermal barrier procedures, drawings, and work instructions

Support on-vehicle and off-vehicle installation (Aeroshells, Hatches, Heatshield)

Assist in development and execution of MLI/soft goods flow plans within the ATLO environment

Perform surface preparation and bonding operations in accordance with strict quality requirements

Minor Focus – Hard Goods TPS (Tile Systems) Heat Shield (Avcoat block Bonding)

Assist with tile installation, bonding, and repair activities

Support gap filler and closeout tile operations

Aid in tile removal, reinstallation, and validation processes

Contribute to tile bond plan reviews and process validation efforts

Shared Responsibilities (Orion Processing Environment)

Work from engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions

Support instrumentation installation and integration activities

Utilize standard aerospace assembly tools and materials

Perform modifications, rework, inspections, and quality testing

Maintain strict adherence to cleanliness, contamination control, and flight hardware handling requirements

Support production flow, risk reduction, and mission assurance effort

Basic Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent

2-4 years of hands-on fabrication or technical experience

Ability to perform precision assembly and sewing/fabrication tasks

Ability to work in a production and flight hardware environment

Must be a U.S. citizen to meet contract requirements.

Must successfully complete a government background investigation.

Must successfully pass pre-employment drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with MLI, thermal barriers, or soft goods fabrication

Experience operating industrial sewing equipment

Familiarity with spacecraft processing or cleanroom environments

Exposure to TPS tile systems (secondary skillset)