Solid Rocket Motor Chemical Research Engineer

This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 PM EST, 27 July 2026.

The AFRL Rocket Motor Technologies Branch within the Space Warfare Directorate (AFRL/RJ) seeks to fill an entry-level position at the DR-02 as Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) Chemical 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 background in advanced composite material development and solid rocket motor design to help us accelerate the manufacturing of critical munitions.

Position duties include, but are not limited to:

• Formulate solid propellants incorporating novel energetic materials to support the development of rocket propellants.
• Characterize and test solid propellants for appropriate applications.
• Work as a member of an overarching team to mature new solid propellants for next-generation solid rocket motor concepts.
• Employ new process techniques to rapidly produce solid rocket motors and their components.
• Present results in the form of reports, patents, conference presentations, and/or program reviews.
• Interface with partners in industry, academia, and other government agencies.
• Must be able to travel <10% of the time.
• 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.

• US Citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Ph.D.,M.Sc., or B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, or related field.

• Strong technical background in energetic materials.
• Technical expertise or experience with propellant formulation, modern mix methods, and propellant characterization and testing.
• Experience with machining metal parts.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Experience in presenting scientific results to broad audiences through conference presentations, seminars, papers, or briefings.

Requisition Number 54752