Documentation of work done and communication of findings to project team.
Post flight characterization and analysis of TPS coupons.
Supporting efforts to understand material behavior variations during flight and ground testing.
Development and maturation of low cost TPS for high cadence Earth/Mars applications for both NASA and commercial space.
Support efforts for transfer of TPS technologies to commercial partners.
Requirements
sem
xrd
materials
engineering degree
communication
teamwork
Regular reporting (verbal and/or written) to research mentor on progress of project.
Knowledge of structure and processing of ceramic, glass, and porous/insulating materials.
Some background knowledge in materials processing and characterization – including familiarity with analytical lab equipment such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and mechanical testing.
For some positions: Ability to stand for a majority of the day, and lift up to 50lbs.
Expected to work (in person at NASA Ames Research Center) 10 hours per week or more, as allowed by the candidate’s course schedule. Therefore, must pursue studies locally (within 20 miles of NASA ARC).
Currently pursuing a degree (B.S, M.S or PhD) in Materials, Chemical, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering; or a related field.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Familiarity with typical lab standard operating procedures (SOP) and safety protocols.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Materials characterization including microstructure, optical, thermal and mechanical properties.
Benefits
Information not given or found
Training + Development
Information not given or found
Interview process
Information not given or found
Visa Sponsorship
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Security clearance
Information not given or found
Company
Overview
1962
Year Founded
Established in Hampton, VA, the company has a long history of innovation.
$143M
Annual Revenue
Indicates the company's financial strength in the aerospace sector.
$1.5B
Major Contract
Significant eight-year agreement with NASA Langley for critical research and development.
14,500 mph
Descent Velocity
Breakthrough research in hypersonic entry vehicle systems.
It blends deep expertise in engineering, science, IT, analytics and visualization to deliver innovative solutions.
Over the decades, AMA has secured landmark contracts, including support for NASA Langley and Marshall centers.
Typical projects include aerospace systems analysis, flight dynamics, atmospheric science, avionics, acoustics, materials development.
AMA maintains a strong government focus, repeatedly partnering with NASA centers across aeronautics and space missions.
Its in-house division, AMA Studios, extends reach into multimedia and visualization for both space and commercial sectors.
AMA operates across multiple U.S. hubs—Hampton, Huntsville, Houston, Denver, Mountain View—yet remains deeply rooted in NASA collaboration.
Culture + Values
We take pride in our technical expertise and delivering exceptional solutions.
We emphasize collaboration, teamwork, and open communication.
We value continuous learning and the development of our employees.
We are committed to high-quality work, integrity, and professionalism.
We support an environment that promotes a work-life balance.
Environment + Sustainability
2035
Net-Zero Target
Achieve net-zero emissions by a specific year.
Committed to sustainable practices in operations and project implementations.
Focused on reducing carbon footprint through innovative engineering solutions.
Sustainability initiatives include energy-efficient solutions and reducing waste.
Focusing on implementing eco-friendly technologies in aerospace and mechanical systems.
Inclusion & Diversity
fosters an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued.
focuses on attracting and retaining a diverse workforce.
actively supports gender diversity and encourages women in engineering roles.