Aerospace Engineer-Direct Hire Authority Job

Vacancy No. AFMC-086103-12874426-TLA Department Air Force Materiel Command
Salary $89,508.00 to $138,370.00 Grade 3 to 3
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 1/28/2026 Close Date 2/12/2026
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Edwards AFB, CAEglin AFB, FLHolloman AFB, NMNellis AFB, NV
Arnold AFB, TNHill AFB, UT


Summary

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.

The primary purpose of this position is to serve as a senior professional aerospace engineer in support of the acquisition, development, or sustainment of
weapon systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment.

This job is open to

The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Clarification from the agency

This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in selection.

Duties

  • Performs professional aerospace engineering work involved in the application of advanced theories, concepts, principles, and processes to the acquisition, development, or sustainment of weapon systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment. Applies expert knowledge and mastery of advanced engineering theories, principles, concepts, standards, and methods to ensure assigned projects remain consistent with program objectives, costs, schedules, performance criteria, and existing policies
  • Functions as the organization's technical specialist in design and development engineering for critical systems and subsystems
  • Performs complex and comprehensive analysis and uses systematic, disciplined, quantifiable approaches to implement, develop, and document projects. Recognizing priorities as well as the urgency of situations, evaluates procedures and employs innovative techniques and methods to achieve goals. In support of engineering reviews and/or panels, develops evaluations and technical justifications of feasibility, practicability, and technical soundness
  • Serves as a consultant and technical expert to senior subject matter specialists, agency and/or Department of Defense (DoD) officials responsible for broad program operations

Requirements

Conditions of employment

  • U.S. Citizenship is required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see Legal and Regulatory Guidance
  • This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • For more information on Acq Demo please go to DoD AcqDemo Homepage http://acqdemo.hci.mil/ and Fact Sheet http://acqdemo.hci.mil/faq.html
  • An engineering degree at the bachelor's level from an institution with an ABET accredited program or in a closely related field is highly desired
  • Work may occasionally require travel away from the normal duty station on military or commercial aircraft
  • Employee may be required to work overtime
  • Relocation costs or other incentives may be available and considered by the organization
  • This position may require drug testing and the candidate may be subject to passing a drug test upon selection
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments
  • Selectee is expected to be granted with and/or maintain the appropriate security clearance required for the position
  • Selectee may be required to serve a probationary or trial period
  • All federal employees are required to have direct deposit
  • This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.

Qualifications

In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Professional Engineering and Scientific Positions; https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/tabs/group-standards/

BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
Degree: Engineering. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by ABET; or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.

In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower broadband NH-02, equivalent to the next to lower grade GS-11 or equivalent in the Federal Service. Specialized experience must include experience serving as an aerospace engineer in support of the acquisition, development, or sustainment of weapon systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment. The position is responsible for work related to the integration of aeronautics sciences within the broad arena of aviation. Considered the technical specialist for the organization in aerospace engineering assignments; employee provides technical leadership and management to ensure project/program success. Work encompasses several phases of the life-cycle management process in which the employee guides and evaluates the design and development activities of others.
NOTE: You must submit a copy of official transcripts.

OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:

Combination of education and experience -- college-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering. The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following: 1. Professional registration or licensure -- Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT)
1. or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any State, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico. Absent other means of qualifying under this standard, those applicants who achieved such registration by means other than written test (e.g., State grandfather or eminence provisions) are eligible only for positions that are within or closely related to the specialty field of their registration. For example, an applicant who attains registration through a State Board's eminence provision as a manufacturing engineer typically would be rated eligible only for manufacturing engineering positions. 2. Written Test -- Evidence of having successfully passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE)2 examination or any other written test required for professional

Ideal Candidate Statement: Seeking a highly motivated and experienced technical professional with 3-5 years of experience in test and evaluation, acquisition of major weapon systems, or the development of propulsion systems. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated success in managing complex technical projects and effectively handling customer engagements. Additionally, strong knowledge of aerospace propulsion systems, such as airbreathing engines or rocket engines, and familiarity with national facility-based test and evaluation capabilities are strongly encouraged.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of professional aerospace engineering concepts, principles, practices, standards, methods, techniques, materials, and equipment to effectively apply advanced engineering theories, principles, and concepts to project development, execution, and advisory services.
2. Knowledge of development testing and evaluation sufficient to apply experimental theories and new applications to issues and provide technical advice and direction in support of weapon systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment.
3. Knowledge of integrated air-vehicles, ground systems, and support equipment sufficient to plan, design, test, troubleshoot, evaluate, and oversee the development and/or sustainment of aerospace vehicles, systems, equipment, and components.
4. Knowledge of other engineering disciplines and standard acquisition regulations, practices, and procedures.
5. Ability to devise and evaluate criteria, parameters, characteristics, and interrelationships for design approaches, and to assess the impact of new technology on current systems and processes.
6. Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy, both orally and in writing, as well as work in a professional manner with peers, management, contractors, academia, and other agencies.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

ARE YOU USING YOUR EDUCATION TO QUALIFY? If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.

FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.

Additional information

This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in selection.

This job announcement may close at any time - apply now!

This is an acquisition demonstration project position NH-03 equivalent to a GS-12 to GS-13.

Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit


Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How you will be evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.

Your responses to the questionnaire may be compared to the documents you submit. The documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job.

Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further.

APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume.

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be provided with your application. Applicants who do not submit required documentation to determine eligibility and qualifications will be eliminated from consideration. Other documents may be required based on the eligibility/eligibilities you are claiming. Click here to view the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide and the required documents you must submit to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming.

  1. Online Application: Questionnaire
  2. Resume: Your resume may NOT exceed two pages, and the font size should not be smaller than 10 pts. You will not be considered for this vacancy if your resume is illegible/unreadable. Additional information on resume requirements can be located under "How To Apply".
  3. Transcripts/Registration/License: If qualifying on education/position requires education, you must submit copies of your transcripts and if required for the position, submit an active, current registration/license.
ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS: The VOW Act requires federal agencies to treat an eligible active duty service member as a veteran, disabled veteran, and preference eligible (as applicable) when applying for civil service positions before the effective release or discharge date. Appointment of military members before the release or discharge date is permissible if the member is on terminal leave. At the time the active duty member applies for a civil position, he or she must submit a "certification" memo in lieu of a DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Active duty members applying for a civil service position without submitting a valid certification memo or DD Form 214 with their application will render the member ineligible for the position. The certification memo must originate from the member's military service branch on official letterhead and contain the following:
  • Name/Rank/Grade of Service Member
  • Branch of Armed Forces
  • Dates of Active Service (Start and End Date(s)
  • Expected Date of Discharge/Release from Active Duty
  • Terminal leave start date (if applicable)
  • Expected character of service/discharge and type of separation (i.e. separation or retirement)
  • Must be certified within 120 days of anticipated discharge
  • Signature by, or by direction of the adjutant, personnel office, unit commander, or higher headquarters commander.
Note: The VOW Act provides tentative preference. If appointed, a DD Form 214 must be submitted upon receipt.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

The complete Application Package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 02/11/2026

To preview the Application Questionnaire, please click the following link:https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12874426

To begin the process, click the Apply Online button to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account. Follow the prompts to complete the application questionnaire. Please ensure you click the Submit My Application button at the end of the process.

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

1. Your Resume. If you submit more than one resume, only the most recent will be reviewed. The "most recent" is considered the resume with the latest timestamp.

  • Resumes may not exceed two pages. The two-page resume ensures the most relevant experience is reviewed and considered, which is a common practice in both the public and private sectors. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Additional information on how to complete or update your resume may be located here.
  • For qualification determination your resume must contain hours worked per week and dates of employment (i.e., month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as insufficient, and you will not receive consideration for this position. If you are a current Federal employee or previous Federal employee, provide your pay plan, series and grade, i.e. GS-0301-09. Current Federal Civilian Employees may list any relevant performance related rating (given within the last three years) and/or incentive awards in your resume.
  • Do NOT include photographs, inappropriate material, inappropriate content, nor personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., on your resume. If the resume you submit contains such information you will not be considered for this vacancy.
  • Your name, first and last, MUST be included on your resume.
2. A complete Application Questionnaire
3. Additional Required Documents (see Required Documents section). Ensure all submitted documents contain your full name.
4. Help recruiters find you. Make your resume and profile searchable, which means recruiters may contact you about possible jobs. Additional information may be located here.

OPTIONAL DOCUMENTS:
Performance Appraisals for Current Federal Civilian Employees - Most recent performance appraisals (dated within last 3 years) showing the official rating of record, signed by a supervisor, or statement why the performance appraisal is unavailable.
Awards for Current Federal Civilian Employees - List any awards received within the last 3 years on the resume.
Note: Applicant must not submit award Notification of Personnel Actions (SF50s).

PLEASE NOTE: It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that information entered and/or uploaded, (i.e., resume) is received, accurate, and submitted by the closing date. You may verify your documents have been processed with your application package successfully. You can access your USAJOBS account to do so by clicking here. Uploaded documents may take up to one hour to clear the virus scan.

Human Resources WILL NOT modify or change any answers submitted by an applicant.

Agency contact information

Air Force Test Center Recruitment
Email
AFTC.Enterprise.Recruiting@us.af.mil
Address
AF Test Center
6437 6th Street
Bldg 430, Rm 119
Hill AFB, UT 84056
US

Next steps

Once your application package is received an acknowledgement email will be sent.

If you provided an email address, you will receive an email message acknowledging receipt of your application.Your application package will be used to determine your eligibility and qualifications for consideration. If you are determined to be ineligible or not qualified, your application will receive no further consideration.

To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account, select My Applications, and click on the more information link under the application status for this position.

If you do not provide an email address, you are responsible for checking status updates and notifications in USAJOBS. Hard copy notifications will not be sent to you.

Additional locations

Arnold AFB, TN
Hill AFB, UT

Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.