Mechanical Engineering Technician - Sheet Metal
Location: Glen Burnie, Maryland
Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. Our mission is to further science and exploration, communications, and economic progress from the Earth to the Moon and beyond. With multiple NASA lunar missions in development and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting NASA, our customers, and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the Moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.
About the Position:
Intuitive Machines is seeking a highly skilled Sheet Metal / Mechanical Engineering Technician to support the design, fabrication, assembly and testing of precision mechanical systems used in lunar robotics, spacecraft mechanisms, ground support equipment and prototype hardware. This position bridges engineering and manufacturing by collaborating directly with mechanical engineers to transform CAD models into flight-like hardware, engineering prototypes, test fixtures and production tooling. The successful candidate will possess exceptional fabrication skills, experience with aerospace sheet metal manufacturing and the ability to independently develop manufacturing solutions for complex mechanical assemblies. This role is located at Intuitive Machines' Robotics & Mechanisms Center in Glen Burnie, Maryland.
Responsibilities:
Fabricate precision sheet metal components, structural assemblies, equipment chassis, frames and mechanical hardware supporting spacecraft, robotics and ground support systems.
Collaborate with mechanical engineers to develop manufacturable designs and provide fabrication expertise throughout the product development cycle.
Interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, GD&T, specifications, sketches and verbal instructions.
Independently plan fabrication methods and manufacture prototype hardware with minimal supervision.
Develop and fabricate engineering prototypes, high-fidelity mockups, flight support hardware, test fixtures, assembly fixtures, jigs, templates and production tooling.
Perform layout, cutting, drilling, punching, bending, forming, rolling, machining, deburring, finishing and assembly of sheet metal components.
Operate CNC punch presses, CNC press brakes, hydraulic presses, shears, roll formers, drill presses, band saws, belt sanders and hand/power tools.
Program, operate, troubleshoot and optimize CNC sheet metal equipment.
Convert CAD models into manufacturable flat patterns and fabrication drawings.
Perform fitting and assembly using rivets, threaded fasteners, Clecos, inserts and aerospace fastening methods.
Work with aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, copper, brass, structural steel and specialty alloys.
Inspect completed parts using precision measurement equipment.
Participate in design reviews to improve manufacturability, cost and quality.
Support laboratory setup, prototype integration and mechanical testing.
Maintain manufacturing documentation and quality records.
Follow all safety procedures and perform additional duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
High school diploma or GED.Minimum 10 years of experience in precision sheet metal fabrication, aerospace manufacturing or prototype mechanical fabrication.
Experience fabricating complex prototype hardware from engineering drawings and CAD models.
Thorough knowledge of sheet metal fabrication processes and instrumentation fabrication techniques.
Experience programming and operating CNC sheet metal equipment.
Strong understanding of GD&T and blueprint interpretation.
Experience with aerospace materials and tight tolerances.
Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Preferred Qualifications:
Aerospace or spacecraft manufacturing experience.
Experience supporting prototype and low-volume manufacturing.
Experience with SolidWorks and/or Creo.
Experience creating flat patterns from 3D CAD models.
Familiarity with AS9100.Familiar with welding practices.
Forklift and overhead crane experience.
Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma experience.
Desired Skills:
Sheet metal design and flat pattern development.
Fixture and tooling design.
Excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Strong communication and teamwork.
Ability to manage multiple prototype projects.
Physical Requirements:- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Lift up to 50 pounds.
- Manual dexterity for precision fabrication.
- Wear required PPE.Work Environment
- Work is performed in a prototype development laboratory and manufacturing environment supporting spacecraft, lunar robotics and aerospace mechanisms.
US EEO Statement:
Intuitive Machines is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
