Demo

Vandenberg Space Force Base Site Lead

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Lompoc, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 5/3/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/31/2026
Description

Are you interested in the design, development, test. and acquisition of the Sentinel Missile – the next generation of ground based Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) envisioned to operate throughout the 21st century?

Are you already a leader in strategic systems engineering, with experience in the test and evaluation of complex systems?

Do you have experience in leading missile or space launch operations?

Or, are you a SME on Air Force Strategic Systems with significant experience working within industry, academia, or the military?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking a Vandenberg Field Office (VFO) Site Lead to establish the JHU/APL technical and programmatic efforts supporting the Sentinel weapon system development program office at Vandenberg Space Force Base (VSFB), California. As the VFO Site Lead you will develop and maintain collaborative, trusted relationships with the Sentinel and Minuteman III program offices, Air Force Global Strike Command, Air Force Test Center, Space Launch Delta 30, supporting contractors, other University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs), Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), and associated government entities.

As the Air Force Strategic Systems Vandenberg Field Office Site Lead you will...

  • Establish APL support at Vandenberg Space Force Base, interfacing with ICBM mission partners and installation organization.
  • Provide technical leadership on ICBM test and evaluation matters such as test planning, capability provisioning, test conduct, analysis, and reporting.
  • Advise Sentinel program office, mission partners, and installation organizations on design, stand-up, operation, and sustainment of ICBM test range infrastructure.
  • Serve as liaison for Sentinel program office on test range activities, as well as coordinating with APL staff at Laurel Main Campus and the Utah field office (UFO).
  • Execute independent evaluation by direct participation in ICBM flight test activities.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have...

  • A Master’s degree in STEM or other related discipline with at least 20 years of relevant experience working on strategic weapons systems, to include, Sentinel, Minuteman III or Strategic Hypersonic Programs.
  • Prior related leadership and operational experience with Vandenberg Space Force Base and the ICBM enterprise organizations.
  • Working knowledge with technologies and operational procedures associated with nuclear weapons systems.
  • Exceptionally strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively interface with sponsor, industry partners, mission partners and military personnel on a routine basis.
  • A willingness and ability to travel (up to 1-2 times per month).
  • An active TS security clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have...

  • Extensive experience working with USSTRATCOM, AFGSC, & AFNWC.
  • Experience with teams dispersed across geographic and organizational boundaries.
  • Experience with new DoD program development to include concept development and acquisition milestone activities.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

175,000.00

Maximum Rate

225,000.00

Salary : $175,000 - $225,000

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