Advanced Space Propulsion Engineer
- City, State:
- Rosamond, CA
- Location/Base:
- Edwards AFB, CA
- Level:
- Mid-Level
- Pay Plan-Grade:
- DR-02
- Pay Range (without Locality):
- DR-02: $75,484 - $118,528
- Technology Directorate/Mission Organization:
- RQ
- Office Symbol:
- RQRS
- Job Overview:
This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 5 March 2026.
OPEN TO CURRENT AFRL FEDERAL CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES ONLY.
The AFRL Space Propulsion Branch within the Rocket Science and Technology Division (AFRL/RQR), Aerospace Systems Directorate, seeks to fill a mid-level position at the DR-02 level as an Advanced Space Propulsion Engineer. The position is located at the AFRL Rocket Laboratory at Edwards AFB, CA.
For more than 60 years, the AFRL Rocket Laboratory at Edwards AFB has contributed to several technology developments in rocket engines, including those of Saturn, Titan, Space Shuttle, and all major intercontinental ballistic missiles and current space launchers. Today, the site continues to enable technology leaps in hypersonics, solid rocket boosters, in-space propulsion, and liquid rockets for defense and commercial space in support for the Air & Space Forces.
We are searching for a high-performing, highly-motivated individual with a strong background in space maneuvering, space systems, and space propulsion technology to serve as Advanced Space Propulsion Engineer.
Position duties include, but are not limited to:
- Envisions, researches, develops, and tests next-generation space propulsion systems to address Department of War’s technical needs in space warfare and national defense.
- Leads technology development along with space propulsion test facility operations and upgrades.
- Plans and executes tests, analyzes data, and interprets the results.
- Interfaces with partners in industry, academia, and other government agencies
- Must be able to travel <10% of the time.
- This position is an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) position requiring level 1-Foundational, Non-Critical certification in Engineering & Technical Management. The selectee will have 24-months to meet APDP requirements or a waiver must be obtained. Government applicants for this position must list any acquisition certifications and status as an acquisition corps member in their resume.
- Telework:
- Yes, this position is eligible for situational telework; as determined by agency policy
- Eligible for a Referral Bonus?:
- Yes
- Required Qualifications:
- US Citizenship.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Ph.D. or M.S. degrees in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or other technical field of relevance for space propulsion.
- Desired Qualifications:
- Strong background in space propulsion and space systems, including but not limited to one of these disciplines: electric propulsion, chemical propulsion, nuclear propulsion, ICBM post-boost system propulsion, plasma physics, combustion, spacecraft control, spacecraft maneuvering, spacecraft navigation, thermal management, or spacecraft autonomy.
- Experience in propulsion system integration into full-spacecraft systems.
- Experience in modern scientific experimental methods for spacecraft testing at near- and ultra-vacuum conditions.
- Familiarity with modern artificial intelligence, digital engineering, or machine learning methods for model development and data mining.
- Experience in presenting scientific results to broad audiences through conference presentations, seminars, papers, or briefings.
- Excellent presentation skills.
- Genuine interest in working with a diverse team to solve multi-disciplinary applied engineering problems and advance the mission of the Air & Space Forces.
(Requisition No. 52501)