Hypersonic Test Vehicle Assembly Engineer

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 20 December 2024. Resumes should include day/month/year to properly credit work experience.  References are requested.

The Air Force Research Laboratory’s Nuclear Mission Branch (AFRL/RVBN) seeks a highly motivated and experienced mid-career professional to work within the Space Vehicles Directorate (RV), Geospace Technologies Division (RVB) to lead a dynamic team to conduct the assembly of nuclear technology payloads and testbed flight bodies at a future nuclear science and technology (S&T) integration complex on Kirtland Air Force Base (KAFB), New Mexico.

RVBN provides system development and integration for USAF nuclear S&T. Position duties include but are not limited to:

• Provide hands-on technical leadership to a diverse team of engineers and technicians
• Perform design and coordinate the fabrication of tooling used in the assembly of mechanical sub-assemblies to be incorporated into test device assemblies.
• Perform engineering calculations to analyze the safety basis of tooling used to assemble high explosive test devices.
• Develop and implement assembly procedures for the assembly of high explosive test devices.
• Work with computer-aided model-based engineering design and analysis tools
• Apply familiarity with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) methodology
• Work independently with minimal supervision.
• Develop unique procedures, documentation, and workflows
• Design and test unique handling tooling and fixturing for assembly operations
• Ensure deliverables are met with a high degree of quality, compliance, and safety
• Interface with systems engineering, relevant contractors, and the IT&E lead to requirements/capability development, planning, operations, and delivery. 

• US Citizenship
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in science, engineering or mathematics
• Significant hands-on experience in mechanical systems assembly, research, and/or developmental operations
• Must be able to perform a variety of non-routine tasks and demonstrate considerable knowledge of electronic or mechanical systems, avionics, or aerospace assembly
• Ability to read and interpret models, drawings, schematics, and technical orders
• Experience leading a multidisciplinary technical team
• Demonstrated ability to work both as part of a team and independently in a dynamic work environment
• Excellent analytical, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to accurately document, report, assess situations, and make informed judgments
• Ability and willingness to work on systems which have unusual conditions such as high explosives, radioactive materials, high voltage, or chemicals
• Applicants must currently hold, or have the ability to obtain a DOD TS/SCI clearance

3-5 (or more) years experience in:

• Flight systems assembly operations, satellite assembly operations, or stockpile activities such as nuclear weapon Life Extension Programs (LEP), Alterations, Joint Test Assemblies (JTA), development testing, and/or assembly operations in development or War Reserve settings
• Experience in high-consequence operations that include high explosives, radiological and electrical components
• Ability to coach and mentor early-career personnel in tooling and fixture design, weapon assembly and integration strategies, hazardous material handling practices, fundamental engineering practices, and high-consequence operational skills

(Requisition No. 75476)