Lead AIT Engineer, Small Satellite Programs

Air Force Research Laboratory; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Air Force Research Laboratory in Albuquerque, NM, seeks an Assembly Integration and Test Lead Engineer for the Small Satellite Portfolio at Kirtland AFB. You will lead a team in satellite assembly, integration, and test, coordinate with program managers, and ensure testing aligns with directorate goals.

The role requires experience with environmental test campaigns, clean room practices, and leadership responsibilities across multiple spacecraft programs, with a focus on collaboration and

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship required.
• Active TS/SCI clearance required.
• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering.
• At least 1 year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
• APDP Level II certification in Engineering and Technology Management (N) with up to 60 months to meet requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of technicians and engineers, including training and certification.
• Develop and execute integration and test campaigns with spacecraft program managers.
• Manage facilities, requirements, and scheduling for multiple campaigns.
• Track funding needs to support facilities and personnel.
• Balance competing requirements with leadership to meet program goals.
• Maintain and operate environmental test systems (vibration, TVAC, EMI).
• Lead investigations into anomalous test results or vehicle behavior.
• Work in a clean environment with flight hardware.

Skills

Strong communication

Organizational skills

Spacecraft testing

Team leadership

Program management liaison

Education

Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering

Tools

Vibration table

TVAC chamber

EMI chamber

Job description

Air Force Research Laboratory in Albuquerque, NM, seeks an Assembly Integration and Test Lead Engineer for the Small Satellite Portfolio at Kirtland AFB. You will lead a team in satellite assembly, integration, and test, coordinate with program managers, and ensure testing aligns with directorate goals.

The role requires experience with environmental test campaigns, clean room practices, and leadership responsibilities across multiple spacecraft programs, with a focus on collaboration and