Structures - CPLC Group
Structures Subteam (Airframe)
Role overview
Airframe - Structures, Manufacturing, & Integration Note: This role represents the main area where a candidate can stand out, but Airframe members will also contribute to broader design, manufacturing, testing, integration, and team operations as needed. The Airframe subteam supports the Lander Challenge under the Definity Education by designing, manufacturing, and integrating the main structural “chassis” of a reusable lunar lander-style rocket. This includes the structural vehicle frame and its shock-absorbing landing legs that allow the rocket to survive landing and be reused. The project is continuing through a multi-year development cycle. Importantly members will help complete the “last mile” of initiatives from previous years, current-semester testing goals, and longer-term vehicle improvements. This is a hands-on role involving work at the Texas A&M FEDC in Zachry and at RELLIS, with responsibilities spanning design, fabrication, testing, integration, meetings, and cross-subteam communication.
What we are looking for
These skills are preferred, but applicants are not expected to have all of them. Training and learning will happen throughout the role, including opportunities to gain manufacturing experience through the FEDC. Hands-on manufacturing experience from classes, projects, research, personal work, or previous teams Familiarity with tools or processes such as mills, lathes, CNC machines, laser cutting, or plasma cutting Welding experience Woodworking, metalworking, or general fabrication experience Strong fundamentals in physics, mechanics, statics, or structural analysis CAD experience, such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape, or similar software Basic FEA or structural simulation knowledge All role-specific technical skills can be learned on the job. We are looking for motivated members who are willing to put in time, be hands-on, ask questions, and actively contribute to the build and test process.
Project context
The Airframe is what allows the rest of the lander’s systems, including propulsion, fuel storage, electronics, computing, and tether systems, to safely mount to the rocket and operate as one integrated vehicle. By ensuring the structure can survive landing loads and be reused, the Airframe subteam helps make the reusable lander concept possible.