Softgood Engineering Technologist

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? If you are, we need you! We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for NASA's pursuits in deep space exploration. We have an exciting opportunity for a Softgood Engineering Technologist to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX. If selected you will: Design, develop, and fabricate new and innovative functional softgoods articles for the manned spaceflight program such as stowage solutions, structural inflatables, ancillary space suit equipment, thermal blankets, and general deep space product designClearly and thoroughly present design concepts and considerationsCollaborate with engineers and designers to understand requirements of working on a variety of systems and hardwareTake ownership and show initiative to complete softgoods design tasksPerform sewing machine maintenance, repair, and custom modifications to tailor the sewing machine for unique stitching operationsCreate patterns and develop mockups for verifying fit and function of softgood articlesInterpret fabrication drawings to assemble sewn products, and review fabrication drawings before final release for flight fabricationSeek new manufacturing techniques and innovative materialsOccasionally travel to other NASA centers to perform softgoods fabrication and installationAbility to lift and transport materials and equipmentAbility to work in confined spaces, scale steps and laddersPerform other duties as required Qualifications: This position has been posted at multiple levels. Depending on the candidate's experience, requirements, and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised. Typically requires a HS diploma and 15 years of experience or BS in Engineering Technology or related field and 5 years of experience.3+ years' experience in a softgoods lab environment with emphasis in softgoods design and fabricationDemonstrated capability to independently devise solutions to complex design problems by their own efforts, and by soliciting inputs from other technical expertsExpertise in a wide range of hands-on fabrication - sewing machines, laser cutters, fabric welders, 3D printers, band saws, drills, etc.Demonstrated success working with a teamProficiency utilizing Adobe, AutoCAD, and Rhino CAD software Preferred Qualifications: BA, BFA, or BS in Industrial Design or equivalent is desiredExperienced in aerospace product design processes including ability to read, understand, and create fabrication drawingsExperienced with fabricating processes for prototyping and flight softgood productsExperienced in Adobe, AutoCAD, and Rhino CAD softwareFamiliar with the NASA/JSC Softgoods design and development and JETS Engineering Life Cycle processes Benefits Competitive payPositive work-life balance100% Employer paid insurance including: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability11 paid holidays annuallyGenerous PTO401k after 12 months of service with employer match Education assistanceRelocation assistance (if applicable) Mclaurin is a unique organization with a special focus on combining the best features of research and industry in order to foster innovation. Our organization strongly supports research, publication, and engagement with the academic community. We encourage our employees to remain on the cutting edge of new developments in their respective disciplines. US Citizenship and the ability to pass a comprehensive security background investigation is required. Mclaurin is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Created: 2026-03-04