Principal Engineer / Scientist (Aerospace & Defense)

Location: Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, USA

Salary: USD 150,000–190,000 yearly

Company

hirify.global delivers data-driven systems engineering, advanced analytics, research and development, and strategic advisory solutions for aerospace, biosecurity, defense, and national security missions.

What you will do

• Provide senior-level scientific, engineering, and technical advisory support to Air Force Research Laboratory leadership.
• Plan and assess advanced technology and research programs, including technical merit, feasibility, impact, and investment priorities.
• Conduct systems engineering analyses, architecture assessments, technical studies, evaluations, and trade studies.
• Assess emerging technologies, development strategies, acquisition approaches, and transition pathways for future warfighter capabilities.
• Prepare technical briefings, reports, papers, presentations, and recommendations for senior government stakeholders.
• Collaborate with government, industry, academia, federally funded research and development centers, and research organizations.

Requirements

• Active DoD Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility is required.
• Doctoral degree in engineering or science with at least 12 years of relevant experience, master's degree with at least 14 years, or bachelor's degree with at least 20 years.
• Demonstrated experience with space or information and spectrum warfare systems or technologies.
• Recognized expertise and professional standing in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline.
• Ability to provide independent technical advice and recommendations to senior government leadership.
• Experience supporting advanced research and development, technology planning, or technology assessment.

Nice to have

• Experience with AFRL, the Department of the Air Force, U.S. Space Force, DARPA, or other DoD science and technology organizations.
• Expertise in space systems, space communications, positioning and navigation, space cyber, ISR, space domain awareness, modeling and simulation, information or spectrum warfare, high-power electromagnetics, laser systems, or electro-optics.
• Experience with DoD science and technology planning, investment processes, and technology transition.
• Experience presenting technical recommendations to executive-level audiences and working across government, industry, academia, and research institutions.
• Published research, patents, professional awards, technical leadership, or other evidence of recognized standing.

Culture & Benefits

• Full-time employment supporting a federal research and development program.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Company-paid life and disability insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Educational reimbursement program.
• Position is contingent upon contract award.