Hypersonic Test Vehicle Assembly Engineer

Job Overview

OPEN TO ALL US CITIZENS.

This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:59 PM, MDT, 1 June 2026.

The Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) Strategic Deterrence Science and Technology (S&T) Division is seeking a motivated and hands-on Integration & Test Engineer to join our team and play a foundational role in activating the newly constructed Nuclear Enterprise S&T complex (NEST). NEST is a multi-million-dollar complex of hypersonic test vehicle laboratories at Kirtland AFB, NM. This complex provides the critical infrastructure to research, develop, prototype, and test the nation's next-generation strategic and hypersonic systems.

This is a unique opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a state-of-the-art facility. You will be directly responsible for the hands-on assembly, integration, and testing of critical flight hardware and experimental payloads. The ideal candidate is a proactive, problem-solving engineer who thrives in a dynamic laboratory environment. For highly experienced candidates, this position offers the potential to step into a Team Lead role, guiding the activities of other engineers and technicians and shaping the operational procedures for the new laboratories.

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Perform hands-on mechanical and electrical assembly and integration of complex flight test articles and experimental hardware.
Read and interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and work instructions to execute assembly and test procedures with precision.
Operate a wide range of test and support equipment, including instrumentation, data acquisition systems, environmental test chambers, and overhead cranes.
Author and refine assembly work instructions, test procedures, and safety documentation for laboratory operations.
Collaborate with design engineers and analysts to troubleshoot and resolve integration issues, providing direct feedback to improve future designs.
Ensure all laboratory and test activities are conducted in strict compliance with facility safety protocols, particularly those involving hazardous materials (explosives, radiological materials, beryllium).
(For Team Lead Candidates): Plan and direct the day-to-day activities of a team of engineers and technicians, manage workflow, and provide technical mentorship.

Telework

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

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

No

Required Qualifications

US Citizenship.
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in science, engineering or mathematics.
Hands-on experience in mechanical systems assembly, research, and/or developmental operations.
Must be able to perform a variety of non-routine tasks and demonstrate considerable knowledge of electronic or mechanical systems, avionics, or aerospace assembly.
Ability to read and interpret models, drawings, schematics, and technical orders.
Experience with standard test and measurement equipment (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes, torque wrenches).
Demonstrated ability to work both as part of a team and independently in a dynamic work environment.
Excellent analytical, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to accurately document, report, assess situations, and make informed judgments.
Ability and willingness to work on systems which have unusual conditions such as high explosives, radioactive materials, high voltage, or chemicals.
Applicants must currently hold, or have the ability to obtain a DOD TS/SCI clearance.

Desired Qualifications

Current Top Secret//SCI security clearance.
Experience leading a multi-disciplinary technical team.
Five (5+) or more years of experience in a hands-on RDT&E or low-volume, high variety manufacturing environment.
Hands-on experience working with hazardous materials, including explosives, Low Specific Activity (LSA) radiological materials, or beryllium, and familiarity with the associated safety protocols.
Certifications or experience operating heavy equipment such as overhead cranes, gantries, or forklifts.
Experience with high-fidelity test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and data analysis software.
Ability to coach and mentor early-career personnel in tooling and fixture design, weapon assembly and integration strategies, hazardous material handling practices, fundamental engineering practices, and high-consequence operational skills.

Requisition Number 15692

Series

08XX

1310
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