NASA Is Now Giving Eligible People a Chance to Become Flight Directors for Missions to the ISS, Moon and Mars

NASA is giving eligible U.S. citizens a chance to take on one of the most important roles in human spaceflight. The agency is accepting applications for flight directors who will help lead missions to the International Space Station, the Moon – and, eventually, Mars. The role comes with major responsibilities, from guiding teams during missions to making critical decisions in high-pressure situations.

The basic qualifications to become a NASA flight director are simply being a U.S. citizen and having a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science, or mathematics, according to a press release from NASA.

However, over and above being a U.S. citizen and having a relevant degree from an accredited institution, the successful candidates will also need substantial related, progressively responsible professional experience, including time-critical decision-making experience in high-stress, high-risk environments.

Although many NASA flight directors have previously been flight controllers working in mission control, it is not a prerequisite to apply.

Applications for new flight directors are open now through Monday, Oct. 12. U.S. citizens can apply at:

https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/886788000

Those chosen as NASA flight directors will lead human spaceflight missions to the International Space Station, Artemis missions to the Moon, and, eventually, the first human missions to Mars.

Flight directors lead teams of flight controllers, astronauts, and commercial and international partners in real-time mission execution and risk management. In preparation for a mission, flight directors collaborate with engineering, safety, and program partners to ensure operational plans align with spacecraft capabilities and mission objectives.

“We are working in an exciting, pivotal time as we continue supporting operations to the International Space Station while building the next phase of human spaceflight with Artemis and Moon Base missions, preparing to go farther than ever before,” said Emily Nelson, chief flight director at Johnson. “Accomplishing these ambitious goals requires flight directors who are expert integrators, bringing together a broad range of teams and disciplines into a clear, unified mission effort. This integral role exemplifies the best of innovation and teamwork.”

NASA plans to announce selections by the end of the year. The new flight directors will receive extensive training in flight control and spacecraft systems, as well as operational leadership and risk management.

Learn more about NASA flight directors and the application process at: go.nasa.gov/BeAFlightDirector