Rocket Test Division Chief Engineer

Job OverviewOPEN TO ALL QUALIFIED US CITIZENS.This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 PDT, 14 November 2026.DutiesThe Rocket Test Division seeks to hire someone to serve as Chief Engineer. This position will be filled at the DR-03/04 (GS-14/15 equivalent) level, and is located at Edwards Air Force Base. Position duties include, but are not limited to: Apply Systems Engineering: Ensure that proper systems engineering discipline is applied during test facility buildup and sustainment, and test planning and execution, and that tests commence only with Test Execution Authority (TEA) approval. Chair Technical Review Boards (TRBs): Chair TRBs or delegate these duties. The TRB's purpose is to ensure technical rigor and identify potential risks. Develop Technical Review Processes: In coordination with the AFRL/RJ Test Lead, develop a technical review process to ensure that each test activity includes an assessment of its technical risk level. Chair Design Reviews: Serve as the chair for design reviews. Ensure Proper Resources and Disciplines: Make certain that programs employ the correct disciplines and resources necessary to achieve their technical objectives safely and in accordance with applicable guidance. Data & Performance Evaluation: Oversee post-test data analysis, comparing empirical test results to analytical models to validate test facility performance, structural margins, and thermal properties. Team Mentorship & Growth: Lead, mentor, and inspire a highly skilled team of test, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and software engineers, fostering a culture of rapid innovation, accountability, and technical excellence. Required Qualifications US Citizenship. Possess a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Chemical, or Systems Engineering or a related field. Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. Must be APDP certified at the Practitioner level in Engineering & Technical Management (ETM), or obtain certification within 60 months. To qualify, an applicant must possess at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower broadbands (DR-02/03) or standard federal grade (GS-12/13/14 equivalents). Desired Qualifications Master's degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, Chemical, or Systems Engineering or a related field. 10 years of relevant experience Direct experience in rocket propulsion development and hardware testing Direct experience in a technical leadership or principal engineering role Background/training in Systems Engineering Background/training in Risk Management Strong communication skills, exceptional ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights for design teams and executive leadership Familiarity with industry and/or military standards for propulsion systems testing and facility safety protocols TeleworkYes, this position is eligible for situational telework; as determined by agency policyEligible for a Referral Bonus?YesSeries0801Additional InformationInstructions on how to submit documents are provided in the automated email you will receive once you apply. Candidates with resumes longer than 2-pages will not be considered.Requisition Number 56383Posting End Date11/14/2026