NASA Flight Director Job: Lead Mission Control for Artemis and Future Mars Missions

NASA is seeking a leader for a Mission Control flight director position at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. The highly respected role is critical to advancing America’s leadership in space exploration as NASA prepares for a sustained human presence on the Moon.

Applications Open for NASA Flight Director Position

Applications for the new flight director position are being accepted until Monday, October 12. U.S. citizens can learn more about the application process below.

Learn more about the NASA Flight Director position

What Does a NASA Flight Director Do?

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

The flight director leads a team of flight controllers, astronauts, and commercial and international partners during real-time mission execution and risk management. During mission preparation, the flight director works with engineering, safety, and program partners to ensure operational plans align with spacecraft capabilities and mission objectives.

“We are at an exciting and pivotal time as we prepare to go farther than ever before, building on the next phase of human spaceflight with Artemis and moon-based missions while continuing to provide operational support to the International Space Station,” said Emily Nelson, Johnson Air Chief Flight Director.

“Achieving these ambitious goals requires flight directors who are expert integrators, bringing together a wide range of teams and disciplines into a clear, unified mission effort. This essential role exemplifies innovation and teamwork at its finest.”

NASA Flight Director Requirements

To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological sciences, physical sciences, computer science, or mathematics.

Applicants must also have relevant, progressively responsible professional experience, including experience making rapid decisions in high-stress, high-risk environments. Many NASA flight directors have previously worked in mission control as flight controllers, but that experience is not required to apply.

Training and Selection Timeline

NASA plans to announce the selection results by the end of the year. Selected flight directors will receive extensive training in flight controls and spacecraft systems, operational leadership, and risk management.

Learn more about NASA flight directors and the application process:

go.nasa.gov/BeAFlightDirector

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Media Contacts

Rachel Craft
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-1100
[email protected]

Anna Schneider / Mary Pfister
Johnson Space Center, Houston
281-483-5111
[email protected] / [email protected]