Engineering the Future: Careers in Safety and Mission Assurance at NASA

Have you ever dreamed of playing a direct role in the success of space missions that push the boundaries of human achievement? NASA is seeking dedicated, visionary professionals for an Aerospace Engineer position within the Safety and Mission Assurance (SMA) directorate at the John F. Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This is a unique opportunity to join an agency that is not only exploring the solar system but also setting the standard for rigorous technical safety in the aerospace industry.

Job Responsibilities

As a Safety and Mission Assurance Engineer, you will serve as a vital link between technical development and mission success. Your primary responsibilities will include:

Leading cross-disciplinary technical evaluations of launch vehicles and spacecraft.
Providing programmatic consultation to agency stakeholders regarding technical risk and safety.
Mentoring junior engineers on launch vehicle operations and safety principles.
Presenting complex findings to management boards to inform high-stakes decision-making.
Acting as a final authority during launch operations to provide go/no-go recommendations.

Requirements

This position requires a strong technical foundation. To be considered, you must:

Possess a Bachelor’s degree in an ABET-accredited Engineering program or a related Science/Mathematics field.
Demonstrate one year of specialized experience equivalent to the grade level you are seeking.
Be able to effectively document technical findings and deliver oral briefings.

Grade Level Comparison Table

Grade Level	Focus of Specialized Experience
GS-11	Entry-level technical evaluations and assistance with safety standards.
GS-12	Performing independent technical evaluations and risk assessments.
GS-13	Leading multidisciplinary teams for launch and mission operations.

Salary and Benefits

NASA offers a highly competitive federal salary and benefit package. The current annual salary range for this position is $75,233 to $139,398. In addition to salary, employees receive:

Federal health and life insurance programs.
Retirement savings through FERS.
Ample opportunities for professional advancement.
Flexible work policies, including telework options.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position requires precision. NASA strictly enforces a two-page limit on resumes, so focus on the most impactful achievements that correlate with the duties listed in the announcement. Be sure to provide clear, detailed descriptions of your experience—avoid copying the job description verbatim, as this can lead to disqualification. Always include dates (month/year) for your employment history.

Working at NASA is more than just a job; it is a lifelong pursuit of the impossible. If you are an engineer who thrives in high-pressure, mission-critical environments, we encourage you to review the full requirements and submit your application before the closing date. Join us as we explore the extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this a remote position? No, the position is located at Kennedy Space Center, though some telework may be permitted.
Are there age requirements? Applicants must generally meet federal standards for employment; NASA does not discriminate based on age.
What is the probationary period? New hires are subject to a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and mission fitness.

Why This Public Notice - Aerospace Engineer, Ast, Safety & Mission Assurance (Direct Hire) Job Matters

Launch your career into the stratosphere at Kennedy Space Center! Join NASA's elite Safety and Mission Assurance team and help protect the future of human spaceflight.

Public Notice - Aerospace Engineer, Ast, Safety & Mission Assurance (Direct Hire) Job Overview

As an Aerospace Engineer in the Safety and Mission Assurance Directorate, you will play a critical role in the success of the Launch Services Program. This position involves performing technical evaluations of complex launch vehicles, spacecraft, and ground support equipment. You will serve as a key technical advisor, ensuring that safety and quality standards are upheld to mitigate mission risk while supporting cutting-edge aerospace operations.

Requirements for Public Notice - Aerospace Engineer, Ast, Safety & Mission Assurance (Direct Hire)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must hold a Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Engineering, Physical Science, Mathematics, Life Science, or Computer Science from an accredited institution.
For engineering degrees, the program must be ABET-accredited.
One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-09, GS-11, or GS-12) depending on the target grade level.
Experience in technical evaluations of aerospace hardware or processes, including safety, risk, quality, or testing protocols.
Must be able to communicate complex technical information effectively through briefings and reports.

Preferred Qualifications for Public Notice - Aerospace Engineer, Ast, Safety & Mission Assurance (Direct Hire)

Experience in launch vehicle systems or spacecraft processing.
Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams during launch operations.
Demonstrated experience in applying aerospace industry standards for mission assurance.
Strong problem-solving skills in high-stakes, time-sensitive environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS).
✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and annual leave.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.
✓Flexible work arrangements (telework eligibility).
✓Access to a diverse, mission-driven work environment.

💡 How to Apply Public Notice - Aerospace Engineer, Ast, Safety & Mission Assurance (Direct Hire) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Public Notice - Aerospace Engineer, Ast, Safety & Mission Assurance (Direct Hire) Job

Create a profile on the USAJOBS website.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
Gather and upload copies of your official or unofficial college transcripts.
Complete the online application and the embedded vacancy questionnaire.
Submit your full application package before the deadline of October 5, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all relevant information is captured correctly.
Be specific—use your own words to describe your specialized experience rather than copying text from the announcement.
Double-check that your resume is 2 pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
Ensure your resume includes month and year dates for all work experience to ensure accurate qualification review.
Redact any sensitive personal information such as SSNs or photos before submitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a security clearance required for this role?

No, this position is currently listed as non-sensitive and does not require a security clearance.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No. The system will automatically reject any application package containing a resume exceeding two pages.

Does veterans' preference apply to this vacancy?

Because this position is filled using Direct Hire Authority, standard veterans' preference does not apply, though veterans are still encouraged to submit relevant documentation.

Job from John F. Kennedy Space Center

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an agency defined by its spirit of discovery. From the pioneering days of Mercury to the modern advancements of the Artemis missions, NASA continues to break barriers. Joining the team at Kennedy Space Center means working among a diverse group of scientists, engineers, and specialists who prioritize excellence, integrity, and safety above all else. At NASA, your daily work directly contributes to missions that leave an enduring impact on humanity.