International Program Officer

Job Overview

• This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11 March 2025. AFOSR International Science Division (AFRL/AFOSR/IO) seeks to hire a senior-level, DR-IV researcher as an International Program Officer in São Paulo, Brazil.
   
  Position duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Serves as an International Program Officer (IPO) at the Southern Office of Aerospace Research and Development (SOARD), Air Force Office of Scientific Research.
  • Manages, leads, and transitions foreign basic research programs across the broad disciplines of material science, chemistry, biology, physics, space, and/or related scientific and engineering sub-disciplines.
  • Receives broad recognition as a top technical expert and engages with university professors and top research scientists as a technical equal to identify significant developments in Latin American (LATAM) research.
  • Visits R&D institutions, conducts technical assessments, and serves as a Laboratory Liaison officer for the International Science Division, U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR).
  • Performs detailed analysis of projects, programs, or evolving trends across broad scientific disciplines.
  • Formulates and communicates a strategic approach to selecting, issuing, and managing small grants that achieve DAF's long-term objectives.
  • Establishes and implements top-level strategy, objectives, and performance measures for assigned projects.
  • Prioritizes work and assumes responsibility for funding needs and allocations.
  • Engages and maintains dialog with subject-matter experts in AFRL Technology Directorates, matches gaps in basic science with research advances in the LATAM scientific community.
  • Facilitates direct interactions of LATAM researchers with the U.S. science community.
  • Identifies and communicates significant LATAM developments of interest to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, United States Southern Command, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, and state department science and technology stakeholders.
  • Significant travel within LATAM and to the U.S. is expected.
  • Works within the framework of agency policies, mission objectives, and time and funding limitations, with minimal oversight.
  • Promotes a culture where Intellectual Property (IP) is developed, documented, protected, and encouraged. 
  • Inherent in the technical publication review process is a thorough screening for potential IP.
  • Scientific/engineering knowledge will be utilized to effectively assist in IP transfer, transition, or commercialization.
  *Interviews will be held in March 2025. Projected EOD: Jun 2026 due to overseas processing requirements. Overseas tour length: 3–5 years. 1-year probationary period. No locality pay, but post allowance. Sponsored housing provided Office is located at the US Consolate in São Paulo, Brazil *

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

Yes

Required Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship Required.
• Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
• A Secret security clearance is required. Must be able to obtain/maintain clearance.
• PCS expenses, if authorized, will be paid IAW JTR and Air Force Regulations.
• This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program.
• This is an APDP position requiring Level/Tier 1 (Foundational) Non-Critical certification in Engineering & Technical Management (N). 
• This position has been designated as an acquisition position and is covered by the Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP). 
• The employee must meet or be capable of meeting Defense Acquisition Work Improvement Act (DAWIA) requirements applicable to the duties of the position.
• Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade, DR-03, or equivalent in other pay systems. 
• The required one year of specialized experience may be gained from qualifying for private sector service, military service, another qualifying pay plan, or the Lab Demo personnel system, separately or combined.

• In addition, US Office of Personnel Management (OPM) individual occupational requirements for professional engineering positions and Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions. General Physical Sciences Series 1301

Desired Qualifications

• PHD is highly desired.
• Experience working with other AFRL Directorates.
• The ability to cultivate and sustain a professional environment of cooperation, cohesion, and teamwork.
• Research experience.
• Grant management and grant processing knowledge.
• Has international experience (e.g., international science collaboration, internationally recognized researcher, worked with international researchers, and/or have lived overseas).
• Able to handle international interaction and extensive travel.
• Familiar with specific technical areas’ state-of-the art (be able to judge world-class research).
• Familiar with DoD programming and budgeting processes.
• Experience developing and maintaining close relationships with academia and other Government agencies for Basic Research.
• Level 3 Portuguese Proficiency (training may be provided).

Additional Information

• Travel and Relocation Expenses will be Paid IAW JTR and AFMAN 36-606.

Series

1301