Aerospace Engineer, AST, Research Pilot (Direct Hire)

Full Job Description

The Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Research Pilot to support advanced aeronautics flight research and Earth science missions.

The incumbent will conduct experimental and developmental flight tests, execute complex airborne science operations, and contribute to NASA's mission to advance aerospace technology and scientific discovery.

In addition to the Basic Education Requirement (in the Education section below), to qualify for this position you must meet the requirements below.

Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the particular ability, skill, and knowledge to successfully perform the duties of this position and is typically in or related to this line of work.

NASA utilizes OPM-approved qualification and rating requirements specific for Aerospace Technology (AST) positions which recognizes NASA's unique aerospace work.

The specific qualifications and minimum education requirements are further described below and within the education section of the job announcement. 1.

Certificate and Rating: A current Federal Aviation Administration commercial pilot's license with an instrument rating OR A pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. 2.

Flight Hours: 1,500 hours of pilot-in-command (or first pilot) flight time that included at least 500 hours in jet aircraft having at least 3,000 pounds of thrust per engine. 3.

Specialized experience: To qualify for GS-14, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level: Executing in-flight test techniques to evaluate aircraft performance and flying qualities testing in support of flight test programs or related training activities; Serving as Pilot in Command in fighter, trainer, transport, or bomber aircraft; leading flight operations while applying knowledge of crew systems, aviation operations, and safety standards to achieve mission objectives; and Performing flight research, flight test, or airborne test bed aircraft operations to evaluate aircraft systems in support of aircraft design, development, testing, or modification efforts.

To receive proper consideration, you must: Submit a copy of your license (front and back) with your application AND Ensure that your flight hours are indicated in your resume.

Your resume must include a clear and detailed narrative description, in your own words, of how you meet the required specialized experience.

Experience statements copied from a position description, vacancy announcement or other reference material constitutes plagiarism and may result in disqualification and losing consideration for the job.

NASA prohibits the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or AI-assisted tool in drafting application and assessment responses.

Please visit https://www.nasa.gov/careers/how-to-apply/#Artificial-Intelligence to review NASA's guidance on the use of AI tools during the application process. Major Duties:

• Duties described below are at the highest grade advertised. Duties assigned at lower grade levels will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity; duties will be commensurate with the grade of selected employee.
• Serves as a Research Pilot in the Flight Operations Branch, executing multiple aeronautics and airborne science research projects.
• Leads collaboration with engineers, project managers, and technical teams to plan and execute flight research missions; serving as a test pilot and participating in the accomplishment of mission objectives and success.
• Operates research and development aircraft carrying scientific payloads, remote sensing systems, and specialized research instrumentation, ensuring mission safety and data quality.
• Coordinates with Airborne Science project scientists to refine data requirements, optimize flight profiles, and make real-time adjustments to maximize mission effectiveness.
• Serves as a subject matter expert in multiple aircraft, demonstrating capabilities and managing in-flight and ground emergencies.
• Advises the Director for Flight Operations and the Chief Pilot on all phases of aircraft operations, science data collection strategies, flight instructional techniques, air traffic procedures, and regulatory compliance.
• Supports global deployment operations for airborne research campaigns, including remote-site operations, international coordination, and implementation of safety practices.