Space Scientist, AST - Planetary Studies

In addition to the Basic Education Requirement (in the Education section below), to qualify for this position you must meet the requirements below and have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade, which has equipped you with the particular competencies needed to successfully perform the duties of the position described above. NASA utilizes OPM-approved qualification and rating requirements specific for Aerospace Technology (AST) positions which recognizes NASA's unique aerospace work.

The specific qualifications and minimum education requirements are further described below and within the education section of the job announcement.

To qualify for GS-14, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level: Applying models and tools to characterize the orbital debris environment and assess the risk of orbital debris generation and disposal methods; Developing and implementing orbital debris mitigation requirements for NASA programs and projects in accordance with NASA orbital debris policies and standards; Generating Orbital Debris Assessment Reports (ODAR) and End of Mission Plans (EOMP) for NASA programs and projects in accordance with NASA orbital debris policies and standards.

To qualify for GS-15, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level: Leading or conducting technical assessments, reviews, and compliance activities related to orbital debris mitigation measures for spaceflight missions; Planning, developing, and implementing orbital debris mitigation activities of major agency programs of national scope and impact; Consulting and advising on developing and implementing policies, guidelines, and orbital debris mitigation practices for spaceflight projects.

Your resume must include a clear and detailed narrative description, in your own words, of how you meet the required specialized experience. Experience statements copied from a position description, vacancy announcement or other reference material constitutes plagiarism and may result in disqualification and losing consideration for the job.

Please visit https://www.nasa.gov/careers/how-to-apply/#Artificial-Intelligence to review NASA's guidance on the use of artificial intelligent (AI) or AI-assisted tools during the application process.

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.,Serves as NASA's senior program authority and principal advisor to the Chief, Safety and Mission Assurance, on Agency-wide orbital debris mitigation matters.,Provides leadership for the development, implementation, interpretation, and continuous improvement of NASA internal directives, standards, and technical requirements governing orbital debris mitigation for flight programs and projects.,Advises on programs and projects regarding orbital debris mitigation practices and compliance with Federal standards and NASA requirements governing orbital debris mitigation.,Provides authoritative technical and policy interpretation to Mission Directorates, Centers, Program Managers, and Technical Authorities regarding compliance obligations, risk acceptance decisions, and technical standards.,Exercises Agency-level review responsibility for orbital debris mitigation, ensuring consistency in policy implementation and independent safety oversight across NASA programs and projects.,Represents NASA in high-visibility interagency, national, and international forums involving orbital debris mitigation, space sustainability, and related policy matters.