Engineering the Future of Aviation Safety: Supervisory Aerospace Engineer Opportunity
The Air Force Safety Center is currently searching for a distinguished and experienced Supervisory Aerospace Engineer (GS-15) to lead the Engineering Branch of the Aviation Safety Division. Located at the historic Kirtland Air Force Base, this position is ideal for an engineering leader dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards in defense and aerospace operations.
Job Responsibilities
As the Chief Engineer for the Air Force Safety Center, you will:
- Provide leadership and mentorship to the Engineering Branch staff.
- Direct technical assessments of hazards and risks for systems and operations.
- Represent the Air Force Safety Center as a technical spokesperson.
- Ensure compliance with all safety and security regulations.
- Advise senior leadership on complex aerospace engineering issues.
Comparison: Standard Engineering Role vs. This Supervisory Position
| Feature | Standard Aerospace Engineer | Supervisory Aerospace Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Task Execution | Strategic Oversight & Leadership |
| Personnel Mgmt | None | Direct Staff Supervision |
| Scope | Project-based | Organizational/Division-wide |
| Policy Impact | Minimal | High-Level Advisory |
Requirements
To be considered, applicants must meet the basic educational requirements for professional engineering, which include an ABET-accredited degree or a strong combination of relevant education and experience. Candidates must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level and meet Time-in-Grade requirements.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $149,550 to $194,417 per year, commensurate with experience and the grade level of the role.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of the Air Force enjoy industry-leading benefits, including:
- Robust health and life insurance.
- A comprehensive retirement plan featuring the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Generous leave policies.
- Access to professional development and training.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: Keep your resume to two pages, or you will be automatically disqualified.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly state hours per week and dates for every position.
- Submit Transcripts: If qualifying via education, official transcripts are essential.
This role offers a unique intersection of high-level management and cutting-edge aerospace engineering. If you are ready to serve your country by leading the next generation of aviation safety, apply today.
Why This Supervisory Aerospace Engineer Job Matters
Take command of engineering excellence at the Air Force Safety Center and shape the future of aviation safety.
Supervisory Aerospace Engineer Job Overview
The Air Force Safety Center is seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Aerospace Engineer to lead the Engineering Branch of the Aviation Safety Division at Kirtland AFB. In this pivotal GS-15 role, you will serve as the Chief Engineer, providing strategic oversight, managing professional staff, and directing high-level technical assessments of safety risks across diverse aerospace systems. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence Air Force and DoD safety policies while leading complex technical initiatives in a high-impact environment.
Requirements for Supervisory Aerospace Engineer
- Must meet OPM qualification standards for professional engineering positions (ABET-accredited degree or equivalent combination of education and experience).
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level.
- Must meet Federal Time-in-Grade (TIG) requirements for GS-15.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Ability to supervise staff and manage technical programs.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Aerospace Engineer
- Advanced professional knowledge of aerospace vehicle structures, propulsion, and avionics systems.
- Demonstrated experience in System Acquisition Processes and safety data trend analysis.
- Proven track record in leadership, personnel management, and organizational development.
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills for high-level briefings.
- Proficiency in statistical analytical methods for risk assessment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with matching contributions
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual/sick leave accrual
- ✓Flexible spending accounts and life insurance programs
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Aerospace Engineer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Aerospace Engineer Job
- Register or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required transcripts, proof of license/registration, and relevant SF-50 forms.
- Review your application for accuracy and submit before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must not exceed two pages; exceedings this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Ensure all dates (month/year) and hours per week are clearly documented for all experience.
- Current federal employees should clearly list their pay plan, series, and grade.
- Verify that all required supporting documents are uploaded and legible.
- Do not include personal information like social security numbers or photographs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this role is telework-eligible, though specific requirements are subject to agency policy.
What is the security clearance requirement?
This position requires a Top Secret security clearance.
Can I use foreign education to qualify?
Yes, but you must provide proof that your foreign education is equivalent to a U.S. degree from an accredited institution.
Job from Air Force Safety Center
The United States Air Force is committed to global vigilance, reach, and power. The Air Force Safety Center plays a critical role in this mission by identifying potential hazards, managing safety risks, and ensuring the technical integrity of Air Force assets. Serving here means joining a team that values integrity, service, and excellence.