Senior TPS Technician

Position Overview: 

We’re looking for a highly skilled and detail-oriented TPS Technician to support the fabrication, installation, and refurbishment of thermal protection systems across our flight hardware. This role is critical to ensuring the integrity and performance of heat shield systems, including ablative materials and reusable tile-based protection. 

You’ll work closely with engineering and integration teams to bring designs to life—owning the hands-on execution of TPS processes in a fast-paced startup environment. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Fabricate, install, bond, and finish ablative TPS materials on flight hardware.
• Install, fit, trim, and repair ceramic and composite TPS tiles.
• Perform surface prep including sanding, cleaning, masking, and priming for TPS application.
• Execute bonding processes (adhesives, curing cycles, vacuum bagging where applicable).
• Inspect TPS installations for defects, gaps, adhesion issues, and compliance to spec.
• Conduct rework and repairs on damaged TPS systems.
• Interpret engineering drawings, work instructions, and process specs.
• Collaborate with engineering to refine installation processes and improve manufacturability.
• Maintain cleanroom or controlled environment standards where required.
• Document work performed and track hardware through build processes.

Required Qualifications: 

• Typically 5+ years of hands-on experience in aerospace manufacturing, composites, or TPS-related work.
• Experience working with ablative materials, adhesives, or high-temperature composites.
• Familiarity with precision hand tools, measuring equipment, and shop processes.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship mindset.
• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government Secret/Top Secret security clearance. 

Desired Qualifications: 

• Direct experience with thermal protection systems (tiles, blankets, or ablatives).
• Experience with bonding processes, including adhesive selection and cure cycles.
• Background in aerospace, defense, or high-performance automotive manufacturing.
• Experience working in cleanroom or controlled environments.
• Familiarity with NDI/inspection methods for bonded systems.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive manual tasks  
• Comfortable working with PPE, respirators, and safety equipment as required  
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs 

Our office headquarters is located in Playa Vista, CA. This position requires in office presence.

_{The California annual base salary for this role is currently $46 - $61.  Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data.  Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.}