TPS Design Engineer

Job Description Insight Global is seeking a Senior TPS Design Engineer with a strong materials engineering focus to support the development of next-generation reentry systems. This role sits at the intersection of materials science, design, and hands-on development, with a focus on building and scaling advanced Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) for hypersonic vehicles. You will play a critical role in taking TPS concepts from early-stage design through testing and toward production, working on one of our client's core programs. This is a high-ownership role within a fast-moving, early-stage team, where engineers are expected to contribute across design, materials development, and shop-floor execution. Responsibilities will include

• Design and develop advanced TPS solutions for reentry vehicles, with a focus on ablatives, ceramics, and hot structure materials
• Lead or support material formulation, testing, and characterization, including lab-based development of new TPS materials
• Own TPS components from concept through testing, including participation in full design cycles and test campaigns
• Drive integration of TPS materials into flight hardware, including bonding, machining, and installation approaches
• Partner closely with structures, aerothermal, and manufacturing teams to optimize performance and manufacturability
• Support test campaigns (subscale and full-scale), analyze failures, and iterate rapidly on design and material improvements
• Help define and scale processes for TPS production, including material formulation and manufacturing workflows
• Contribute to technical specifications, documentation, and design standards We are a company committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments where people can bring their full, authentic selves to work every day.

We are an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that believes everyone matters. Qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment regardless of their race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, genetic factors, age, disability, protected veteran status, military or uniformed service member status, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to HR@insightglobal.com.

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https://insightglobal.com/workforce-privacy-policy/. Skills and Requirements

• 3+ years of experience working with Thermal Protection Systems
• Hands-on experience with ablative TPS materials (

Examples:

C-PICA, PICA

variants, SIRCA, carbon-based hot structures, high-temp composites)

• Experience working in a hands-on environment (lab, test, or production floor — not purely theoretical)
• Ability to problem-solve in real-time, especially during testing and integration
• Onsite in Playa Vista, CA
• five days per week
• Experience taking a component or system from concept → design → test → iteration
• Experience with CAD or similar software