NASA is hiring its next flight directors
The people who run mission control for the space station, the Moon and eventually Mars are recruiting, and prior flight controller experience is not required.
Key points
- NASA is recruiting flight directors for mission control at Johnson Space Center in Houston.
- Applications are open to U.S. citizens and close on Monday, 12 October.
- Selections are planned by the end of 2026.
NASA has opened applications for its next class of flight directors, the leaders who run mission control at Johnson Space Center in Houston. The agency describes the job as one of the most respected in human spaceflight.
What the job involves
Flight directors lead teams of flight controllers, astronauts, and commercial and international partners during real-time missions, and they manage risk as events unfold. The new class will work on International Space Station operations, Artemis missions to the Moon and, eventually, human missions to Mars.
Emily Nelson, chief flight director at Johnson, says the role calls for "expert integrators" who can bring many teams together behind one mission.
Who can apply
- U.S. citizenship.
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science or mathematics.
- Substantial, progressively responsible experience, including time-critical decision-making in high-stress, high-risk settings.
NASA says prior flight controller experience is not required.
What happens next
The application window closes on Monday, 12 October. NASA plans to announce selections by the end of 2026. Those chosen will be trained in flight control, spacecraft systems, operational leadership and risk management.
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