Mechanical Technician

NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA

Job Description

NASA Ames Simulation Laboratories (SimLabs) at NASA Ames Research Center consists of the Vertical Motion Simulator (VMS), with a 60 ft. vertical motion system and interchangeable cabs, which can be customized to simulate any aerospace vehicle; the Crew Vehicle Systems Research facility (CVSRF), and Future Flight Central (FFC), an Air Traffic Control/Air Traffic Management (ATC/ATM) simulation facility dedicated to solving present and emerging capacity problems of the nation's airports. SimLabs’ mission is to provide up to date reliable simulation facilities that our customers can use to perform research and experimentation in aviation related disciplines. The Flight Simulator Mechanical Technician position performs critical mechanical inspection, repair, servicing, installation, machining, fabrication, assembly, modification, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance on these highly specialized research simulators. Primary duties are as a junior to mid-level mechanic and fabricator. The successful candidate will be familiar with various shop tools, materials, parts and machinery used in the fabrication and assembly of custom hardware.

Position Requirements

• Inspect, service, repair, install components on simulator equipment
• Perform fabrication, assembly, modification, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance of simulator equipment
• Perform adjustment and alignment of components on simulator equipment
• Remove and replace simulator components
• Use tools correctly and safely in the assembly/disassembly of mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic systems
• Perform motion checks on simulators after qualification, and assist in operation of simulator
• Perform regular preventive maintenance tasks and required periodic testing

• Assist with simulator and component refurbishment and hardware modifications
• Operate heavy machinery and equipment, including man-lifts, forklifts, electric carts, pallet jacks, dollies, and overhead cranes
• Operate machine shop equipment to include drill presses, sheers, lathes, manual milling machines, band saws, and table saws

• Ensure operability, efficiency, and compliance with existing NASA and other standards
• Adhere to safety standards in all aspects of duties
• Work independently and as part of a team
• Provide ongoing technical support to customers, ensuring proper functional use of equipment and programs

• Participate in the development of unique systems and configurations to satisfy customer experimentation needs
• Diagnose and correct routine problems with simulators and systems

• Perform administrative tasks as required
• Qualify and perform duties as a simulation operator
• Complete all required training activities on schedule
• Other duties as assigned

Physical Requirements

• Physical lifting required within OSHA standards
• Climbing and descending stairs and ladders
• Working in small spaces
• Employees must pass an annual physical exam
• Employees must use required personal protective equipment, to include respirators when required

Required Education/Skills

• 2-year technical degree in mechanical or equivalent related training and experience
• 2 years experience in fabrication, assembly, machining, or mechanical repair
• 2 years experience using shop tools and equipment

Additional Desired Skills

• Experience interpreting and applying technical drawings to include 2-dimensional plan forms and 3-dimensional isometric drawings
• Experience utilizing technical manuals
• Experience ensuring work and equipment condition meets all technical, safety, and customer requirements
• Experience and/or certification in welding
• Experience performing machine shop operations to manufacture and repair components using CNC machinery and CAD/CAM functions

Other Requirements

• Located at the NASA Ames Research Center, employee must meet security qualifications for entrance to the Center and will undergo a background check
• Employee must be a U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident
• This position is required to be physically on-site and is not remote

Expected salary range is $62K - $72K.

EEOE including Vets and Disability

NOTE: This position description intends to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. The order in which duties and responsibilities are listed is not significant.