Aerospace Engineer of Flight Sciences
Duties
NASA Aerospace Flight Sciences Engineers are experts in all aspects of what makes things fly, and they develop new techniques for flight. They have a thorough understanding of aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, atmospheric flight mechanics, and other sciences related to what enables a spacecraft or aircraft to gain lift or exert control. Flight Sciences Engineers use wind tunnels to test their theories as well as parachute recovery systems when testing prototypes in flight. They develop flight techniques for spacecraft to leave the Earth’s atmosphere and travel through space. Flight Sciences Engineers also develop systems for the spacecraft to use for landing on other planets. To accomplish their goals, Flight Sciences Engineers work with engineers from other disciplines such as propulsion.
Challenges
Aerospace Flight Sciences Engineers must constantly educate themselves on new and emerging technologies. Because much of their work is cutting edge, they must be especially creative in thinking out of the box and finding solutions to complex issues and problems.
Requirements
Applicants must be United States citizens. At minimum, a four-year physical science, engineering, life sciences, computer science, mathematics, or related fields from an accredited university or college is required, though a PhD is preferred. Applicants must pass a background investigation as a condition of employment.
Training
NASA will provide some training on the job.
Scheduling
This position often requires a lot of traveling. Transportation expenses on behalf of the job may be covered.
Salary and Benefits
NASA benefits include sick leave, short and long term disability protection, life and travel insurance, an employee assistance program, annual leave, paid Federal holidays, and a retirement plan.
$123,556.00 – $152,000.00