Lead Facility Engineer

The Sierra Lobo Rocket Technology and Engineering Services II (RTES II) contract provides advise and assist services (A&AS) at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, California. AFRL conducts rocket propulsion research, as well as developing associated test processes and facilities.

The Liquid Rocket Research Engineer will provide expert technical advisory support for a variety of rocket propulsion development projects. Join an established team of engineers and program managers in the Space Access Branch of the Air Force Research Laboratory, Rocket Propulsion Division (AFRL/RQR) performing research, and development on various engine and launch vehicle technologies to enhance the nation’s Space Access capability.

Sierra Lobo, offers customers a full range of professional and technical capabilities, including Test and Evaluation, Systems Engineering, and Advanced Technologies.  We also develop products and processes related to Cryogenic Fluid and Thermal Management Systems, Densified Propellant Management Systems, and Prototype Extreme Pressure and Temperature Systems.  Our customers include the Department of Defense (DoD), the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

This position will be located at Edwards AFB, CA.

EOE/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Sierra Lobo Rocket Technology and Engineering Services II (RTES II) contract provides advise and assist services (A&AS) at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, California. AFRL conducts rocket propellant and rocket propulsion research, as well as developing associated test processes and facilities.

The Lead Facility Engineer will support the Government Program Lead and provide engineering advisory services for test facility buildup to support Aerospace rocket engine and missile motor RDT&E for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, California. The Lead Facility Engineer will ensure the technical quality of the test facility meets all requirements and will coordinate with the Government Program Lead and Portfolio Principal Investigator on technical issues on facility buildup to support engine/motor firing tests. The Lead Facility Engineer will provide engineering advisory services to support test facility readiness.

Position Responsibilities:

Facility Engineering:

• Analyzes and reviews technical packages for test facility buildup.
• Prepares and oversees verification and validation of requirements for test facility buildup.
• Prepares technical packages for milestone reviews with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support risk management and mitigations for facility buildup.
• Ensure technical requirements and instructions are followed appropriately.

• Provides engineering technical support to project management including developing technical plans and roadmaps for test facility buildup and coordinating with AFRL staff and contractor personnel to plan and execute work.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Test facility engineering experience for Rocket and Missile RDT&E activities.
• Familiar with propulsion system research and development, including solid rocket motors, liquid engines, and/or in-space propulsion for test and evaluation.
• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively to senior leadership and internal and external stakeholders.

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in a scientific discipline, preferably physics, aerospace, or engineering. Master’s degree preferred. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• AFRL experience.
• Experience managing or testing high-visibility Department of Defense projects.
• Extensive experience in the field of rocket propulsion research and development.
• Demonstrated experience with sea-level and/or vacuum test facility operations.

Mandatory Conditions of Employment:

• Must be a US citizen.
• Selectee will be subject to a background investigation prior to onboarding.
• Selectee must obtain a DoD security clearance.