Senior TPS Technician
Inversion
| Company | Inversion |
| Category | Skilled Technician |
| Location | Playa Vista |
| Remote | On-site (inferred) |
| Employment | Not stated |
| Level | Senior |
| Salary | Not stated by the employer |
| Posted | 7 Apr 2026 |
| Last verified | 12 Aug 2026 |
| Source | Employer ATS (greenhouse) |
Description
Turning Space into a Transportation Layer for Earth Who We Are:
Inversion builds advanced reentry systems to deliver next-generation capabilities from space. Our mission is to make Earth radically more accessible by turning Low-Earth Orbit into an on-demand logistics domain. We see space not as a destination, but as a platform — one that unlocks unprecedented speed and global reach. Our spacecraft are designed to deliver payloads anywhere on Earth in under an hour, operating through extreme reentry conditions and landing with high precision. These systems open the door to new ways of testing, delivering, and operating at hypersonic speeds. Inherently dual-use, our technology is built to meet urgent national security needs while laying the groundwork for future commercial applications. Backed by leading investors including Y Combinator, Spark Capital, and Lockheed Martin Ventures, and working with partners such as the U.S. Space Force and NASA, Inversion is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space-based defense and logistics.
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:
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
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
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