Hypersonic Test Vehicle Assembly Engineer

Job Overview

OPEN TO ALL US CITIZENS.

This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:59 PM, MDT, 1 June 2026.

The Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) Strategic Deterrence Science and Technology (S&T) Division is seeking a motivated and hands-on Integration & Test Engineer to join our team and play a foundational role in activating the newly constructed Nuclear Enterprise S&T complex (NEST). NEST is a multi-million-dollar complex of hypersonic test vehicle laboratories at Kirtland AFB, NM. This complex provides the critical infrastructure to research, develop, prototype, and test the nation's next-generation strategic and hypersonic systems.

This is a unique opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a state-of-the-art facility. You will be directly responsible for the hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of critical flight hardware and experimental payloads. The ideal candidate is a proactive, problem-solving engineer who thrives in a dynamic laboratory environment. For highly experienced candidates, this position offers the potential to step into a Team Lead role, guiding the activities of other engineers and technicians and shaping the operational procedures for the new laboratories.

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Perform hands-on mechanical and electrical assembly and integration of complex flight test articles and experimental hardware.
• Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions to execute assembly and test procedures with precision.
• Operate a wide range of test and support equipment, including instrumentation, data acquisition systems, environmental test chambers, and overhead cranes.
• Author and refine assembly work instructions, test procedures, and safety documentation for laboratory operations.
• Collaborate with design engineers and analysts to troubleshoot and resolve integration issues, providing direct feedback to improve future designs.
• Ensure all laboratory and test activities are conducted in strict compliance with facility safety protocols, particularly those involving hazardous materials (explosives, radiological materials, beryllium).
• (For Team Lead Candidates): Plan and direct the day-to-day activities of a team of engineers and technicians, manage workflow, and provide technical mentorship.

Telework

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

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

No

Required Qualifications

• US Citizenship.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in science, engineering or mathematics.
• 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 with standard test and measurement equipment (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes, torque wrenches).
• 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.

Desired Qualifications

• Current Top Secret//SCI security clearance.
• Experience leading a multi-disciplinary technical team.
• Five (5+) or more years of experience in a hands-on RDT&E or low-volume, high variety manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience working with hazardous materials, including explosives, Low Specific Activity (LSA) radiological materials, or beryllium, and familiarity with the associated safety protocols.
• Certifications or experience operating heavy equipment such as overhead cranes, gantries, or forklifts.
• Experience with high-fidelity test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and data analysis software.
• 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 Number 15692

Series

08XX

1310