Launch Site Support Engineer full_time

Position Description

a.i. solutions is looking for a highly-motivated Launch Site Support Engineer (LSSE) for the Expendable Launch Vehicle Integrated Support (ELVIS) team supporting the NASA Launch Services Program (LSP) at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), California. The LSSE will provide launch site and Payload Processing Facility (PPF) support, launch site operational support, and documentation and administrative services to NASA LSP Launch Site Integrations Managers (LSIMs) for all preparation and technical execution of assigned missions. This role will be responsible for the development and maintenance of all documentation and operational requirements and will serve as a VSFB point-of-contact (POC) to NASA LSIMs and NASA management, as a direct report of the VSFB Site Manager. The successful candidate will demonstrate the ability to embrace the a.i. solutions mission and work to continually exceed the expectations of our customers.

Essential Roles & Responsibilities

• Support the LSIM in coordinating with spacecraft (S/C) customers in identification, definition, and documentation of facility and launch site requirements in the Launch Site Support Plan (LSSP).
• Responsible to write, catalog, and incorporate changes to the LSSP as well as conduct detailed reviews with the S/C customer, refine documentation, publish, and distribute preliminary, baseline, and as-flown versions of the LSSP in accordance with contract requirements.
• Manage mission documentation, including archiving for LSP and releasing information to the team through SharePoint, Mission Library System and Large File Transfer.
• Represent NASA VSFB Launch Site Resident Office in preparing all required documentation.
• Assist the Launch Site Integration Manager (LSIM), and serve as primary POC, as required, with coordination between the S/C customer and VSFB organizations including facilities, Range, and launch services providers.
• Represent and support the NASA Resident Office at meetings/video-conferences, design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and working group meetings. This support includes, but is not limited to, hosting, attending, preparing, distributing agendas, and developing and distributing briefings and minutes.
• Support, coordinate, and verify with the LSIM LSSP operational readiness of the PPF and Launch Site prior to S/C arrival and ensure all operational requirements are satisfied while S/C is in PPF and/or Launch Complex.
• Prepare and submit Operations Directives (ODs) for range required operational test support to the Western Range for approval and scheduling for each S/C launch campaign.
• Support, coordinate, and verify all operational S/C PPF and Launch Site transportation
• Support, coordinate, and verify all PPF and Launch Complex access requirements, training, badging, security escort, and tours.
• Coordinate ground support equipment (GSE) movement, monitor S/C clean-up/closeout activities, and coordinate shipping services.
• Develop, submit, and status purchase requests to ensure timely delivery of materials.
• Ensure projects and tasks in the LSP SharePoint Management System are maintained to provide accurate status to NASA, spacecraft customers, and management.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelors Degree in Engineering, Technical, or Physical Science specialty 
• Ability to obtain and maintain a secret security clearance and a valid California Driver’s License
• Have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the objectives and responsibilities of NASA Centers, USSF Western Range, and contractor elements regarding the unmanned launch programs at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB)
• Proven knowledge of spacecraft launch-site processing and support, including mechanical and electrical engineering principles, computer network support, telemetry data processing, clean room operations, and gases/commodities used by spacecraft programs
• Experience documenting technical discussions/decisions, to include dissenting opinions and actions preferably in an engineering environment

Additional Requirements:

• Strong understanding of managing technical documentation using SharePoint
• Ability to relate to customers in a professional manner
• Proven ability working in a team environment
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Proven organizational and project management skills with the ability to multi-task
• Proactive in identifying and addressing challenges to include innovations that result in positive organizational impact
• Must be able to frequently stand, sit, and walk short distances.
• Must be able to support required shift work and overtime.
• Must be able to work with minimal supervision in the performance of all duties and responsibilities.
• Must be able to travel as required for operational and mission requirements.
• Must use every effort to exercise compliance with established safety and health rules, regulations, and laws. Think “Safety First” at all levels within the organization and ensure that the workplace is kept in a clean and safe condition.
• Perform duties and responsibilities that may at times be outside normal activities and assignments but are necessary to provide timely and required support to NASA, their customers, and the company.