Physical Scientist, AST, Science Program Management (Direct Hire)

Spaceflight Science Mission Duties

Duties described below are at the highest grade advertised. Duties assigned at lower grade levels will be of more limited scope, performed with less independence and limited complexity; duties will be commensurate with the grade of selected employee.

Support and lead the formulation of future spaceflight science mission solicitations (e.g., Announcements of Opportunity) aligned with strategic science goals (astrophysics, heliophysics, earth and planetary sciences) and federal regulations.

Lead advanced planning and analytical studies to develop interdisciplinary opportunities and initiate process improvements. Ensure that all solicitations, technical details, and evaluation plans incorporate best practices and lessons learned.

Organize and chair formal scientific reviews, independent study teams, and Technical, Management, and Cost (TMC) proposal review panels. Coordinate scientific, engineering and management disciplines to ensure quality space mission assessments.

Perform comprehensive management functions spanning planning, design, test and evaluation, cost analyses, and quality management. Ensure a smooth transition to project implementation and support overall line-management processes.

Plan, schedule and monitor contracted work, academic grants, and internal technical operations. Ensure quality instrument and mission proposal evaluations free of Conflict of Interest (COI) or biases, and consistent with solicitation rules.

Organize research collaborations and technical forums involving contractors, academia, partner agencies, etc. Disseminate research findings, organize open meetings/websites, present to executive leadership (e.g., NASA HQ), and debrief proposers.

Initiate and lead investigative group studies. Apply advanced scientific and geospatial techniques to interpret complex observational data, derive defensible science conclusions, or assess mission schedule, cost, and management.

Serve as a recognized authority in the physical sciences, providing scientific and technical guidance across experience levels. Collaborate closely with cross-functional team members to deliver efficient work products and develop shared tools.