Safeguarding the Future of Space: Become a NASA Orbital Debris Mitigation Officer

NASA is looking for an visionary leader to join our ranks as a Planetary Studies Specialist focused on orbital debris mitigation. This role is not just a job; it is a commitment to the long-term sustainability of space exploration. As our agency pushes the boundaries of innovation, the protection of our orbital environment is paramount. We are searching for an expert who can interpret complex technical data, influence national policy, and ensure the safety of critical spaceflight missions.

Job Responsibilities

In this high-level position, you will serve as the primary authority on orbital debris matters. Your responsibilities include:

Policy Oversight: Developing and refining internal NASA standards regarding orbital debris mitigation.
Strategic Advising: Providing expert guidance to the Chief of Safety and Mission Assurance.
Technical Leadership: Ensuring compliance across Mission Directorates, centers, and project offices.
External Representation: Representing NASA in international forums and interagency groups to shape the future of global space policy.

Comparison of Responsibilities

Feature	GS-14 Level	GS-15 Level
Scope	Project-specific focus	Agency-wide, national impact
Complexity	Technical execution	Policy development & leadership
Autonomy	High independence	Executive-level influence

Requirements

To be considered for this prestigious role, candidates must demonstrate a strong background in STEM fields. Key requirements include:

Education: A bachelor's degree in engineering, physical science, or relevant technical fields.
Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-13 level for GS-14, or GS-14 level for GS-15.
Professionalism: Must be able to hold a Top Secret clearance and pass drug screening.

Salary Overview

This position is open to both internal and external candidates, with a salary range between $125,776 and $197,200 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and final placement.

Benefits

NASA offers a comprehensive federal benefits package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security:

Robust health and life insurance options.
Retirement savings programs including the FERS system.
Flexible work scheduling and telework availability.
Ample leave time for personal and professional growth.

Application Tips

Use the Resume Builder: The USAJOBS tool is optimized to ensure you include every detail required for federal qualification.
Mind the Page Limit: Resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
Detail Your Impact: Don't just list tasks; describe the outcomes of your work, particularly regarding debris mitigation and technical assessments.

If you are ready to apply your expertise to the most critical challenges facing modern spaceflight, we invite you to apply. Together, we can ensure that the space environment remains a safe, productive, and inspiring frontier for generations to come.

Why This Ast - Planetary Studies Job Matters

Protect the future of space exploration by serving as NASA's lead authority on orbital debris mitigation, shaping policies that safeguard mission integrity across the cosmos.

Ast - Planetary Studies Job Overview

NASA is seeking an expert to join our mission as the Orbital Debris Mitigation Officer. In this pivotal role, you will provide high-level technical leadership, overseeing the development and implementation of critical standards that govern how NASA programs address orbital debris. You will serve as the principal advisor to the Chief of Safety and Mission Assurance, influencing space sustainability and representing the agency in high-stakes international and domestic policy forums.

Requirements for Ast - Planetary Studies

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a bachelor's degree in engineering, physical science, mathematics, life science, or computer science (with specific credit hour requirements in calculus/stats).
One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-13 for GS-14; GS-14 for GS-15).
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Must pass mandatory drug testing.
Submit a resume no longer than two pages.
Meet time-in-grade requirements if currently a federal employee.

Preferred Qualifications for Ast - Planetary Studies

Demonstrated expertise in orbital debris risk assessment and mitigation modeling.
Proven experience generating Orbital Debris Assessment Reports (ODAR) and End of Mission Plans (EOMP).
Expertise in advising agency-level leadership on technical policy and mission compliance.
History of representing an organization in interagency or international aerospace forums.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Generous retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Flexible work options including potential telework.
✓Professional development and career advancement opportunities within a world-class research agency.

💡 How to Apply Ast - Planetary Studies Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Ast - Planetary Studies Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to create a resume of two pages or fewer.
Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
Attach all required documents, including transcripts and SF-50 if applicable.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Prioritize relevant specialized experience in your resume narrative.
Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid automatic disqualification.
Explicitly include dates (month/year) for all work experience.
Do not include personal information like SSN or photos on your resume.
Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all necessary qualification details are captured.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this role?

The role focuses on leading NASA's orbital debris mitigation efforts, including policy development, compliance oversight, and advising leadership on sustainability standards.

Can I apply if my degree is from outside the United States?

Yes, provided your foreign degree is evaluated for equivalency to a U.S. accredited program by a recognized specialized organization.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Top Secret security clearance and is classified as a critical-sensitive, high-risk position.

Job from Headquarters, Nasa

At NASA, we do more than just explore; we inspire. We are a collective of scientists, engineers, writers, and technicians working toward a common goal: understanding our universe. Our work ranges from deep space exploration to advancing aeronautics right here on Earth. Working at NASA means joining an environment that values innovation, safety, and the relentless pursuit of the impossible.