Space & Missile Systems Program Manager

Air Force Research Laboratory; Rosamond (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Telework eligible

Referral bonus eligible

Job summary

Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, CA, is seeking a Space and Missile Systems Lead Program Manager at the DR-02/DR-03 level. The role focuses on managing next-generation space and missile propulsion technologies and coordinating with industry, government, and contracting partners. The position requires US citizenship, ability to obtain a Secret clearance, and a technical B.Sc.

degree. Telework may be available; DPSAP APDP requirements must be met within 24 months, with

Qualifications

• US Citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• B.Sc. degree in a technical field of relevance for the duties of this position.

Responsibilities

• Manages technical programs to deliver next-generation space and missile propulsion technologies.
• Interfaces with partners in industry, contracting, and other government organizations.
• Reports program status and metrics to branch, division, and directorate leadership.
• Carries out program plans and executes funds.
• Creates and manages integrated program schedules and risk registers.
• Manages and executes agreements with industry and government organizations.
• Organizes program reviews with government and industry partners.
• Writes and manages RFIs, RFPs, and program solicitations.
• Leads day-to-day operations in the program office and interacts with Principal Investigators and Subject Matter Experts.

Skills

Program management

Communication skills

Acquisition knowledge

Space propulsion understanding

Education

B.Sc. in a technical field

Tools

MS Office

MS Project

PMRT

Job description

Job OverviewThis announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 PM PDT, 21 August 2026.

Job OverviewThis announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 PM PDT, 21 August 2026.

The Integrated Rocket Systems Branch of the AFRL Rocket and Space Propulsion Division (AFRL/RJP), Space Warfare Directorate, seeks to fill a position at junior DR-02 or mid/senior DR-03 levels (depending on qualifications and experience) as Space and Missile Systems Lead Program Manager. The position is located at the AFRL Rocket Laboratory at Edwards AFB, CA.

For more than 70 years, the AFRL Rocket Laboratory at Edwards AFB has contributed to several technology developments in rocket engines, including those of Saturn, Titan, Space Shuttle, and all major intercontinental ballistic missiles and current space launchers. Today, the site continues to enable technology leaps in hypersonics, solid rocket boosters, in-space propulsion, and liquid rockets for defense and commercial space in support for the Air & Space Forces.

We are searching for a high-performing, highly-motivated individual with a background in managing technical Department of War acquisitions programs and working knowledge of space and missile systems, and most particularly, propulsion subsystems.

Position duties for mid/senior level include, but are not limited to:

• Manages technical programs to deliver next-generation space and missile propulsion technologies.
• Interfaces with partners in industry, contracting, and other government organizations.
• Reports program status and metrics to branch, division, and directorate leadership.
• Carries out program plans and executes funds.
• Creates and manages integrated program schedules and risk registers.
• Manages and executes agreements with industry and government organizations.
• Organizes program reviews with government and industry partners.
• Writes and manages RFIs, RFPs, and program solicitations.
• Leads day-to-day operations in the program office and interacts with Principal Investigators and Subject Matter Experts.
• This position is an Acquisition Professional Development Program (APDP) position requiring level 2-Practicioner, Non-Critical certification in Engineering & Technical Management. The selectee will have 24-months to meet APDP requirements or a waiver must be obtained. Government applicants for this position must list any acquisition certifications and status as an acquisition corps member in their resume.

Required Qualifications

• US Citizenship.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• B.Sc. degree in a technical field of relevance for the duties of this position.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced graduate degree in a technical discipline or business management.
• Experience with MS Office suite, MS Project and PMRT.
• Experience in Defense Acquisition for technology programs.
• PMP, WarU, DAU, or equivalent certifications on advanced program management or financial and business management.
• Technical knowledge of space and missile systems, including propulsion subsystems.
• Excellent communication skills.

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

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?Yes

Series08XX

13XX

Additional InformationRequisition Number 87801

Posting End Date08/21/2026