Solid Rocket Motor Composite Structures Research Engineer

Job Overview

This job announcement will accept candidate submissions until 12 March 26. OPEN TO CURRENT AFRL CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES ONLY. The AFRL Rocket Motor Technologies Branch within the Rocket Science and Technology Division (AFRL/RQR), Aerospace Systems Directorate, seeks to fill a mid-level position at the DR‑02 or DR‑03 level (depending on experience and qualifications of the applicant) as Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) Composite Structures 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 of 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.

• Leads a team of scientists, engineers, and technicians in the use and upkeep of a solid rocket motor casing research facility.
• Develops novel approaches to rapidly producing advanced composite motor casings.
• Pushes the state‑of‑the‑art in case‑on propellant preparation technology.
• Demonstrates research concepts in experiments, ground tests, and flight tests.
• Reports findings in a technically rigorous manner.
• Interfaces with partners in industry, academia, and other government agencies.
• Must be able to travel.

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.

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

Yes.

• US Citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Ph.D. or M.Sc. degrees in Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Chemistry, or a relevant technical field for the duties of this position.

• Technical expertise in polymers and composite materials research and development.
• Experience in developing and manufacturing cases and nozzles for solid rocket motors.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Experience in presenting scientific results to broad audiences through conference presentations, seminars, papers, or briefings.
• Genuine interest in working with a diverse team to solve multi‑disciplinary applied engineering problems and advance the mission of the Air & Space Forces.

(Requisition No. 62003)

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