Space Maneuver Propulsion Research Engineer

This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 PM PST, 8 September 2026.

The AFRL In-Space Propulsion Branch in the Rocket and Space Propulsion Division (AFRL/RJP), Space Warfare 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 70 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 propulsion, with particular emphasis on enabling rapid & sustained maneuvering of space systems for US Space Force missions.

Position duties include, but are not limited to:

• Oversees technical programs to address Department of War’s technical needs in space warfare and national missile defense.
• Envisions, develops, and tests new concepts for space maneuver warfare.
• Provides technical, scientific, programmatic and strategic advice on aspects related to space systems, space testing, space propulsion, and spacecraft engineering.
• Leads, designs, and performs simulations, 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.

• US Citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
• 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, Electric Propulsion, or other relevant technical field for the duties of this position.
• 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.

• Strong technical knowledge of space propulsion and the space environment.
• 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 students nearing completion of their graduate studies are encouraged to apply.

Requisition Number 82606