An Aerospace Engineer designs aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft using knowledge of engineering and physics, and tests prototypes to see if they work according to design. May specialize in aeronautical design and work with airplanes and helicopters, or specialize in astronautical design and work with vehicles used in outer space. May specialize in a particular area of design, such as aerodynamic flow or navigation.
Position Description Serves as a Journeyman Propulsion Engineer within the Combustion Science and Propulsion Research Systems Branch at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD). In this capacity, you will lead the end-to-end development, prototyping, and evaluation of advanced solid, liquid, and airbreathing propulsion systems. You will spearhead multidisciplinary, collaborative team efforts to design, build, and test next-generation propulsion technologies, demonstrating technical leadership and creative problem-solving to pioneer novel propulsion concepts, integrate advanced materials, and deliver innovative tactical applications for the Warfighter.
Core Duties & Responsibilities May Include:
Strategic Research & Development (6.1 - 6.4): Execute basic research through advanced technology development (6.1-6.4) aligned with Department of War (DoW) and US Navy strategic capabilities and modernization priorities.
Program & Project Management:
Author, propose, and manage high-impact propulsion research portfolios, proactively identifying, securing funding for, and pioneering new frontiers in propulsion science. Subject Matter Expertise (SME): Provide authoritative technical expertise as a recognized command SME in combustion diagnostics, airbreathing and rocket motor propulsion, and advanced propellants.
Weapon Systems Integration:
Lead and participate in rigorous technical trade studies to evaluate and influence next-generation weapon systems concepts and architectures.
Technology Transition:
Collaborate closely with US defense industry partners to transition advanced propulsion technologies from research laboratories to active military applications.
Anomaly Resolution & Lifecycle Support:
Deliver critical engineering solutions to resolve complex anomalies and technical challenges in existing fleet propulsion systems; provide direct support to Programs of Record (PoR) during the development, evaluation, and qualification of current and future weapon systems.
Technical Documentation & Advocacy:
Document and defend research findings through comprehensive technical reports, formal project reviews, and presentations at major professional and defense conferences. Minimum Salary $104,349 Maximum Salary $161,313
