AST - Launch and Flight Operations

Full Job Description

The Test, Launch and Recovery Operations Management Branch of the Exploration Ground Systems (EGS) is responsible for test planning, integration, scheduling, implementation, and leadership of the test operations associated with Integrated Systems Verification and Validation, Flight and Ground Systems Integrated Testing, Launch and Recovery Operations for SLS, Orion and EGS programs.

You will serve as a NASA Test Director (NTD) and provide direction/guidance to the team during test operations.

In addition to the Basic Education Requirement (in the Education section below), to qualify for this position you must meet the requirements below and have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade, which has equipped you with the particular competencies needed to successfully perform the duties of the position described above.

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.

To qualify for GS-14, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level: Providing launch operations planning and ground operations support; Applying test operations and leading/managing spaceflight operations; and Leading highly visible test operations during Verification and Validation testing, Integrated Testing, Launch Countdown and Recovery operations.

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:

• Responsible for leading critical test operations for the Artemis missions.
• Plans test operations, the execution of test operations, and the review of lessons learned from test operations.
• Responsible for the negotiations with the various stakeholder organizations for test content, the review of requirements to insure they are implementable, the development of test procedures and the identification of support requirements.
• Provides authoritative direction for complex testing operations planning, requirements integration, procedure planning, and technical integration of the SLS, Orion and EGS Program needs during the execution of test operations.
• Provides leadership of highly visible test operations during Integrated Testing, Launch Countdown and Recovery operations at the discretion of the office chief.
• Develops operations concepts and influences the test planning and strategy for flight and ground hardware to meet flight and mission objectives.
• Utilizes strong communication skills, good judgment, excellent integration and technical experience, and the ability to identify potential issues affecting EGS and other stakeholders.
• Provides direction for complex testing operations planning, requirements integration, procedure planning, and technical integration during execution of test operations of Program needs.