NASA Opens Applications for Next Class of Flight Directors - NASA

2 min read NASA Opens Applications for Next Class of Flight Directors Lauren E. Low Oct 02, 2026 RELEASE 26-082 NASA Headquarters  The Artemis II flight control team is pictured in the White Flight Control Room in mission control at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston on April 10, 2026, for the splashdown and recovery of the Artemis II mission. Credit: NASA/Robert Markowitz NASA is seeking leaders for one of the most esteemed positions on Earth for human spaceflight: flight director in mission control at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. This role is critical to advancing American leadership in space exploration, as NASA paves the way for a sustained human presence on the Moon. 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.” To be considered, flight director candidates must be U.S. citizens with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in engineering, biological science, physical science, computer science, or mathematics. They also will 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. 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 -end- Rachel Kraft Headquarters, Washington 202-358-1100 rachel.h.kraft@nasa.gov Anna Schneider / Mary Pfister Johnson Space Center, Houston 281-483-5111 anna.c.schneider@nasa.gov / mary.m.pfister@nasa.gov Share Details Last Updated Oct 02, 2026 Location NASA Headquarters Related Terms Missions Artemis Get Involved Johnson Space Center — Company newsroom — sourced from NASA. Matter furnished by the company. Not a Notice Nearby paid placement. This page reprints matter furnished by the company from its official newsroom. Notice Nearby did not write this release. Read the original: https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-opens-applications-for-next-class-of-flight-directors