Chief, Space Propulsion Branch

Rosamond, CAThe AFRL Space Propulsion Branch, within the Rocket Science and Technology Division (AFRL/RQR), is hiring a Branch Chief DR-04: $132,876 - $164,301
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Job Overview

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 17 February 2026.

OPEN TO CURRENT AFRL CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES ONLY.

The AFRL Space Propulsion Branch within the Rocket Science and Technology Division (AFRL/RQR), Aerospace Systems Directorate, seeks to hire a senior level position at the DR-04 level as Chief, Space Propulsion Branch. 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 propulsion technology and leadership of complex technical teams.

Position duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Serves as Chief of the Space Propulsion Branch.
  • Leads the branch in delivering revolutionary technology solutions to the Department of War’s technical needs in space warfare and national defense.
  • Supervises civilian, military, and contractor workforce.
  • Interfaces with division leadership and stakeholders in government, industry, and academia.
  • This position is an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) position requiring level 2-Practicioner, 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.

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 Top Secret security clearance.
  • Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, or other technical field of relevance for space propulsion technologies.
  • Must have at least 1 year of experience at the DR-03 (or equivalent) grade level.

Desired Qualifications

  • Track record in scientific research revealed through scholarly publications, grants, patents or awards in technical fields of relevance for chemical and/or electric propulsion.
  • Experience in leading development of solutions for US Space Force’s technical needs for rapid and sustained maneuver.
  • Experience in managing resources and delivering programmatic milestones.
  • Experience in leading technical teams.
  • Experience in envisioning, planning, and overseeing ground tests or laboratory experiments of chemical and/or electric propulsion systems.
  • Familiarity with state-of-the-art computational tools for modeling and simulation of space propulsion systems.
  • 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. 72772)

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