Space Maneuver Research Engineer

Job Overview

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions from 10 April 2026 to 7 May 2026.

The AFRL Space Propulsion Branch in the Rocket Science and Technology Division (AFRL/RQR), Aerospace Systems Directorate, seeks to fill a mid-level position at the DR-02 or DR-03 levels (dependent on the qualifications and experience of the applicant) as Space Maneuver Research 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 technical and scientific background in space systems, with particular emphasis on enabling rapid & sustained maneuvering of space systems for US Space Force missions.

• Oversees technical programs to address Department of War’s technical needs in space warfare and national missile defense.
• Provides technical, scientific, programmatic and strategic advice on aspects related to space systems, space testing, space propulsion, and spacecraft engineering.
• Envisions and formulates new concepts for space systems for space warfare.
• Leads, designs, and performs integrated ground experiments and flight tests dedicated to demonstrating space maneuvering across a broad range of orbital regimes.
• Executes programs and coordinates major reviews and milestones.
• Interfaces with customers and partners testing in our facilities.
• Interfaces with partners in industry, academia, and other government agencies.

Telework

Yes, this position is eligible for situational telework; as determined by agency policy

Remote Work (CONUS)

No, this position is not approved for remote work.

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

Yes

Required Qualifications

• US Citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
• At least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (DR-01/GS-11 for DR-02 or DR‑02/GS‑13 for DR‑03), or equivalent experience in other pay systems
• This position may be filled under multiple occupational series. Applicants are required to meet all OPM Qualification Standard requirements for the applicable occupational series and grade.
• 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.
• Must be able to travel <10% of the time.

Desired Qualifications

• Strong technical knowledge of space propulsion.
• Knowledge of basic computational tools for engineering analysis of space systems and space propulsion.
• Knowledge of basic experimental physics of space propulsion systems.
• Experience with propulsion system integration in space systems.
• Experience with developing analyses for complex orbital maneuvering.
• Ph.D. or M.Sc. degrees in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Space Systems, Spacecraft Engineering, Space Nuclear Engineering, Plasma Physics, Nuclear Physics, Combustion, or other relevant technical field for the duties of this position.
• Ph.D students nearing completion of their graduate studies are encouraged to apply.

Additional Information

(Requisition No. 34778)

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