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Mars Sample Return Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fiber Materials

Operator

Woonsocket, RI

$16.75 - $22/hr

Our products are being used on ground-breaking space initiatives such as NASA's Mars Sample Return mission, important missile programs, airfoils in commercial and military jet engines, and as ...

Fiber Materials

Operator

Woonsocket, RI

$16.75 - $22/hr

Our products are being used on ground-breaking space initiatives such as NASA's Mars Sample Return mission, important missile programs, airfoils in commercial and military jet engines, and as ...

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How much do mars sample return jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for mars sample return in the United States is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Mars Sample Return vs Mars Geologist?

AspectMars Sample ReturnMars Geologist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in planetary science, geology, or engineering; specialized training in space missionsDegree in geology, planetary science, or related field; fieldwork experience
Work EnvironmentSpace agencies, laboratories, mission control, spacecraft operationsField sites, laboratories, research institutions, planetary exploration missions
Employer & Industry UsageNASA, ESA, space agencies involved in planetary sample return missionsUniversities, research institutes, space agencies, planetary exploration projects

While Mars Sample Return specialists focus on designing, managing, and executing space missions to collect and return samples from Mars, Mars Geologists analyze planetary surfaces, conduct fieldwork, and interpret geological data. Both roles require strong scientific backgrounds, but Mars Sample Return roles are more technical and mission-oriented, whereas Mars Geologists focus on surface analysis and research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mars Sample Return Mission Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mars Sample Return Mission Specialist, you need a strong background in planetary science, engineering, or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree and experience in space missions. Familiarity with mission design software, remote sensing tools, robotics, and systems such as NASA's project management frameworks is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help professionals navigate complex challenges and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital to ensure the mission’s scientific integrity, operational safety, and successful sample retrieval from Mars.

What is the Mars Sample Return mission?

The Mars Sample Return mission is an ambitious, multi-agency project led by NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) aiming to collect rock and soil samples from the surface of Mars and bring them back to Earth for detailed analysis. The mission involves multiple spacecraft, including a rover to gather samples, a lander and ascent vehicle to launch them off Mars, and an orbiter to capture the samples and return them to Earth. Scientists hope the returned samples will help answer key questions about Mars' geology, climate history, and potential for past life. The mission is scheduled for the late 2020s, with sample return expected in the early 2030s.

What are the main collaboration challenges faced by engineers working on the Mars Sample Return mission?

Engineers on the Mars Sample Return mission often work within large, interdisciplinary teams spread across different organizations and sometimes continents. Coordinating efforts between spacecraft systems, robotics, planetary science, and mission operations teams can be challenging due to differing technical languages, time zones, and project priorities. Effective communication, regular cross-team meetings, and robust project management tools are essential to ensure all components integrate seamlessly and timelines are met. Those joining the mission can expect to work closely with NASA, ESA, and various contractor partners, making collaboration skills crucial for success.
Operator

Operator

Fiber Materials

Woonsocket, RI

$16.75 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Fiber Materials Inc. | engineered textile products for aerospace and defense

FMI's Rhode Island facility is focused on textile engineering and manufacturing of 2D woven fabrics, 3D woven preforms, braided materials and resin transfer molded composites. We work with the stiffest, strongest, and lightest fiber in the world including carbon, glass, aramid (kevlar) and ceramic.

Our products are being used on ground-breaking space initiatives such as NASA's Mars Sample Return mission, important missile programs, airfoils in commercial and military jet engines, and as lightweight armor for US military ground vehicles.

Your role: FMI's Rhode Island Facility is interested in hiring an Operator to work in our growing Woonsocket, RI facility. Operators supports multiple aspects of our composite manufacturing operation including winding, twisting, spinning, gilling and the stretch breaking operation. Participate in projects developing process improvement methods, solutions required to enhance program quality, cost and scheduling. Perform other duties as assigned and may be required to cross train to additional work centers and skill sets.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Wind spools
  • Creeling and lacing equipment such as spinning frames and looms
  • Creel and lace a twisting machine
  • Operate the various equipment associated with stretch breaking (operating various pieces of equipment)
  • Maintain defect logs
  • Measure and record critical parameters using various calibrated instruments
  • Inspect and document parts for compliance against work instructions
  • Prepare completed units for the next phase of production or shipment

What we need from you:

  • Ability to read, write and follow written work instructions
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort level with tools and mechanical troubleshooting
  • Strong math skills

Preferred:

  • Prior experience working with high end fibers including carbon, glass and ceramic

What you'll get from us:

  • 16 ETO days
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical / Dental / Vision
  • 401k Company Match
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • $1000 Sign-On Bonus

Apply