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Nasa Flight Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead development ofLunar Outpostmissionplans through coordination with NASA Flight Operations Directorate(FOD)personnel,Lunar OutpostLTVIPTs, technical discipline experts, theNASAAstronaut Office ...

Research Pilot

Edwards, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and ...

Lead development of Lunar Outpost mission plans through coordination with NASA Flight Operations Directorate (FOD) personnel, Lunar Outpost LTV IPTs, technical discipline experts, the NASA Astronaut ...

Lead development of Lunar Outpost mission plans through coordination with NASA Flight Operations Directorate (FOD) personnel, Lunar Outpost LTV IPTs, technical discipline experts, the NASA Astronaut ...

Lead development of Lunar Outpost mission plans through coordination with NASA Flight Operations Directorate (FOD) personnel, Lunar Outpost LTV IPTs, technical discipline experts, the NASA Astronaut ...

Lead Mission Director

Arvada, CO ยท On-site

$187K - $235K/yr

Lead development of Lunar Outpost mission plans through coordination with NASA Flight Operations Directorate (FOD) personnel, Lunar Outpost LTV IPTs, technical discipline experts, the NASA Astronaut ...

Lead development of Lunar Outpost mission plans through coordination with NASA Flight Operations Directorate (FOD) personnel, Lunar Outpost LTV IPTs, technical discipline experts, the NASA Astronaut ...

Showing results 21-40

Nasa Flight Operations information

See salary details

$36.5K

$62.1K

$114K

How much do nasa flight operations jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for nasa flight operations in the United States is $62,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is NASA Flight Operations?

NASA Flight Operations refers to the teams and activities responsible for planning, conducting, and monitoring human and robotic space missions. This includes mission control, aerospace engineers, flight directors, and support staff who ensure the safety and success of spaceflights. They oversee everything from launch to landing, including real-time problem solving and communication with astronauts. Flight Operations plays a critical role in training crews, developing mission procedures, and responding to unexpected challenges during missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in NASA Flight Operations?

To thrive in NASA Flight Operations, you need a strong background in aerospace engineering, systems analysis, or related STEM fields, often supported by a relevant degree and specialized training. Proficiency in mission control software, simulation tools, and real-time telemetry systems is critical. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills make candidates stand out, especially under pressure. These abilities are essential for ensuring mission safety, timely decision-making, and seamless coordination during complex space operations.

What are some common challenges faced by NASA Flight Operations team members during mission support?

NASA Flight Operations team members often encounter challenges such as rapidly adapting to unexpected technical issues, coordinating communication across multidisciplinary teams, and maintaining high levels of accuracy under pressure. During mission support, they must quickly interpret real-time data, troubleshoot anomalies, and make critical decisions to ensure mission success and crew safety. Working in a dynamic environment, team members regularly participate in simulations and training to stay prepared for these high-stakes scenarios.

What are popular job titles related to Nasa Flight Operations jobs?

For Nasa Flight Operations jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Nasa Flight Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,063 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

ER-2 Research Pilot

Edwards, CA โ€ข On-site

Integration Innovation, Inc.
Manufacturingย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

$170K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform flight operations for NASA aircraft in accordance with FAA, OEM, and other directives and regulations.

  • Maintain performance standards through knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations, safety precautions, and airfield operations.

  • Participate in training, meetings, and support tasks necessary for safe, secure, and professional aircraft operations.


Job description

NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) Aircrew member performs duties in support of the operations of all aircraft assigned to applicable base location. Pilots will fly sorties for NASA and NASA customers to ensure that quality products and safe operations are provided as tasked. Aircraft are operated to meet Agency platform, research, and support aircraft requirements. AFRC aircraft are located at the main campus at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Deployed operations, both CONUS and OCONUS, are routine for these aircrew positions.

A successful candidate will conduct full-time Pilot duties on ER-2 (U-2) and a variety of other NASA aircraft as assigned to include, but not limited to: Gulfstream III, Gulfstream IV Beechcraft King Air, C-20A, F-18 A/B, F-15 B/D, RQ-4 Global Hawk, T-34C, TG-14.

Pay Range $170,000-$185,000.

The pay range for this position is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, geographic location, and any applicable laws.

To learn more about the work done at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC) check out these videos: 

Advancing NASAโ€™s mission to explore the secrets of the universe for the benefit of all

NASAโ€™s Armstrong Flight Research Center 2023 Highlights


  • Conducting flight operations in accordance with FAA, Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and other applicable directives, regulations, and instructions.
  • Maintaining performance standards in accordance with directives, training plans and Flight Crew Branch policies to include: Knowledge of safety precautions, Knowledge of airfield operations.
  • Demonstrating Emergency Bold Face procedures from memory, and Knowledge of aircraft systems, limitations and ATC regulations / procedures.
  • Participating in i3 and NASA-directed Continuation Training, meetings, and other forums mandated by the on-site management team.
  • Performing any and all on-site tasks necessary at operating locations for a safe, secure, and professional operation.
  • Direct support to any administrative or flight operations scheduling / record keeping as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Candidate must also maintain proficiency, currency, and annual requirements in accordance with NPR 7900.3C, NPD 7900.4D, AFPD 8700.1 and AFOP 7900.3-006 as applicable.

NASA will provide training and qualification checks for aircrew, including required periodic simulator training.

NASA authorized flight surgeon will provide periodic flight physicals for aircrew.


Required Skills:

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree, or higher, from an accredited university or college (Required), with major study in an appropriate field of engineering, physical science, life science, or mathematics (Desired).
  • Must be able to pass random drug screenings. (Required)
  • Possess a current US passport, valid through period of employment. (Required)
  • Formal military training in expected duties (with DD 214 annotating AFSC / MOS qualification) or applicable civilian experience. (Highly Desired)
  • Possess an FAA commercial pilot license with instrument, multiengine and single engine land ratings or possess a pilot and instrument rating from the armed services. (Required)
  • Logbook and/or flight records verifying the following flight time minimums: 1,500 hours of pilot in command (PIC) (Required), pilots preferred to have at least 1000 hours in the U-2 and have been a current U-2 pilot within the past five years to be qualified to begin duty as a NASA ER-2 (Highly Desired).
  • Must meet the security requirements of the position and pass a NASA Flight Medical Certification (Required).

Required Experience:

  • Should possess knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to succeed as a government contractor providing direct support to NASA AFRC staff as required.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Must be able to create, maintain and update briefings and statistical reporting.
  • Must be able to obtain a DoD SECRET security clearance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Light to medium work.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, pull, see, hear, stoop, crouch, feel, handle; manual dexterity.
  • Outside work. Ability to tolerate conditions in a deployed environment to include inclement weather, rain, humidity, cold and extreme heat. May be exposed to dust, fumes, odors, chemicals, and confined spaces.
  • Close, distance, color and peripheral vision and depth perception.
  • Ability to read and comprehend technical manuals and instructions; procedures, safety instructions, memos, reports.
  • Ability to write at a level to relay data, details and information.
  • Ability to perform shop math.
  • Ability to speak clearly and concisely to relay information.

Office conditions:

  • Moderate noise level.
  • May be required to sit at computer station and/or type on keyboard for extended periods of time.
  • May be required to lift objects such as laptop and office copy paper.
  • May be required to view and read computer monitor for extended periods of time.
  • May be required to take verbal messages per phone and face-to-face contact.
  • Will occasionally be required to stand and walk to deliver items within office or on the flight line.

Flight line working conditions:

  • Will be required to work day or night.
  • May be exposed to high noise levels.
  • Will be required to fly long missions (up to 12 hours) at high altitude in a confined space.

May be subject to the altitude or physiological risks normally associated with flying.


i3 is a technically diverse, 100% team member owned business, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services, electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis, UAS system integration and flight operations, full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services, cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training, simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services, Missile Defense Agency, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.  

Perks of being a team member owner include:

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Other outstanding benefits:

  • Excellent insurance coverage
  • 401(k) match
  • Generous PTO
  • Health and wellness incentives
  • Tuition and certification reimbursement
  • Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

 

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