NASA Technician

Industry:
Public Sector
Last Updated:
September 12, 2023

Job Description Overview

A NASA Technician job description involves supporting the agency's space exploration missions by planning, designing, building, and testing various space equipment, tools, and vehicles. These technicians work in the public sector industry, which means that they are employed by the government to provide services to the public. NASA Technicians are responsible for assembling, maintaining, and fixing devices and systems that are utilized in space missions. They also run simulations and tests to guarantee the efficiency and reliability of the devices. The job requires great attention to detail, accuracy, and problem-solving skills. A NASA Technician should be able to read and interpret complex technical drawings and instructions, possess good computer skills, and be prepared to work in a team environment. Excellent communication skills are essential as NASA Technicians work with a broad range of specialists, including engineers, scientists, and other technicians.

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Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Maintains and repairs complex aerospace systems, equipment, and machinery used in NASA missions.
  • Conducts tests, troubleshoots equipment, and diagnoses malfunctions to identify problematic components or systems.
  • Develops solutions and implements modifications to equipment and systems to enhance performance and safety.
  • Operates specialized instrumentation and software to monitor and control equipment performance.
  • Works closely with engineers and scientists to provide technical assistance and support to research and development projects.
  • Adheres to safety protocols and procedures for handling hazardous materials and equipment.
  • Maintains accurate records and documentation of maintenance activities, repairs, and modifications to equipment and systems.
  • Develops training programs and conducts training sessions for personnel on safe and effective use of equipment and systems.

Experience and Education Requirements

To become a NASA Technician in the Public Sector, you will typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, plus some additional education or experience in the field. Most employers prefer candidates with an associate's degree in an engineering or electronics-related field. You may also need work experience in aerospace or electronics, and a solid understanding of the industry and the equipment used in it. Training in computer systems and software is also a plus. Many NASA Technicians also undergo ongoing training and education to keep up with advances in technology and new developments in the field. With the right education and experience, you can help support the work of one of the leading organizations in space research and exploration.

Salary Range

NASA Technicians in the Public Sector industry can expect a salary range of $51,000 to $107,000 in the United States, with a median salary of $78,000 per year, as per data from Glassdoor. Salaries can vary based on experience, level of education, and location. For example, NASA Technicians in California could earn higher salaries compared to their counterparts in less expensive states. In Canada, a NASA Technician can expect to earn around CAD 70,000 per year, according to Payscale.com, while in the UK, salaries average around £35,000 per year. A career as a NASA Technician can be rewarding for those interested in a career in the scientific and engineering fields.

Sources:

  1. Glassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.com/Salary/NASA-Technician-Salaries-E6844DKO5,15.htm
  2. Payscale: https://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=NASATechnician/HourlyRate
  3. Prospects: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/spacecraft-systems-technician#:~:text=Starting%20salaries%20for%20spacecraft%20systems%20technicians%20tend%20to%20be%20between%20%C2%A320%2C000%20and%20%C2%A335%2C000%20a%20year.

Career Outlook

If you want to pursue a career as a NASA Technician, the good news is that the job outlook over the next 5 years is expected to remain steady. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported an estimated 47,300 jobs for aerospace engineering and operations technicians in 2019, with a 1% projected growth rate from 2019 to 2029. With continuing advancements in space exploration and research, the demand for skilled technicians to support these missions will remain constant. Additionally, NASA's renewed focus on lunar exploration and future Mars missions will bring new opportunities for those with technical skills. Working for NASA provides a chance to contribute to amazing scientific discoveries and to be part of an extraordinary team working on the forefront of space exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is a NASA Technician?

A: A NASA Technician is someone who works on the technical aspects of projects related to space exploration, such as building and maintaining spacecrafts, testing equipment, and analyzing data.

Q: What are the educational requirements to become a NASA Technician?

A: Generally, a NASA Technician must have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as some post-secondary education in a technical field such as engineering or physics. Some positions may also require a bachelor's degree.

Q: What skills are necessary to be successful as a NASA Technician?

A: Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team are all important qualities for a NASA Technician. Technical expertise in areas such as electronics or computer programming is also useful.

Q: What are the job prospects like for NASA Technicians?

A: As NASA continues to pursue its mission of space exploration, there is likely to be continued demand for qualified Technicians. However, competition for positions is expected to be strong due to the specialized nature of the work.

Q: What is the typical salary range for a NASA Technician?

A: Salaries for NASA Technicians can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, and location. However, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for aerospace engineering and operations technicians was $65,450 as of May 2019.


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