NASA Service Member Fellowships 2026 offer transitioning U.S. military personnel a chance to work on real space missions. These fellowships partner with the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program and the Defense Health Agency Operation Warfighter Program. Active-duty service members can gain hands-on experience at NASA centers across the country, including remote and hybrid options.
About the NASA Service Member Fellowships Program
This program lets service members work at NASA during their last months of active duty. It runs through two main paths: SkillBridge and Operation Warfighter. Fellows can stay up to 180 days while still on military status.
NASA does not list specific job openings in advance. Instead, applicants join a candidate pool. NASA centers review profiles and match people to needs based on skills and missions.
Current Fellowship Opportunities
Several spots are open now at key NASA sites.
Johnson Space Center Roles
At Johnson Space Center, engineering positions need a master’s degree and technical experience. Fellows might work on spaceflight systems, research, or mission operations. Public affairs roles focus on communications, media, and outreach programs. These suit people with skills in journalism or content creation.
NASA Headquarters Remote Roles
Headquarters offers remote work in program management. Tasks include supporting the fellowship program, coordinating initiatives, and strategic planning. These positions allow flexibility from anywhere.
Fields and Career Areas
Fellowships cover many areas that match military skills.
Engineering, Science, and Technology
Options include aerospace engineering, systems engineering, and research development.
Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Roles cover cybersecurity operations, network administration, and software support.
Communications and Public Affairs
Work involves media relations, content development, and strategic communications.
Business and Administration
Positions range from human resources and program management to budgeting and procurement.
Other fields like safety, social sciences, and math are also available.
Eligibility Requirements
Requirements differ by program.
SkillBridge Eligibility
Service members must be in their final 180 days of duty, available for at least 90 days, and complete the Transition Assistance Program. They need command approval and must follow branch rules. Participation can end if mission needs change.
Operation Warfighter Eligibility
Applicants must be in the program, assigned to a regional coordinator, and have medical and command approval. They follow a recovery plan, and participation may stop based on health or command decisions.
Fellowship Duration and Locations
Fellowships last from 90 to 180 days. They take place at NASA centers nationwide, with hybrid or remote setups. Fellows should check centers that fit their interests, like human spaceflight or technology.
Application Process
NASA handles applications for both programs.
For SkillBridge
First, get military approval from your base education center. Research NASA centers and missions. Submit your profile through NASA’s application platform.
For Operation Warfighter
Contact your regional coordinator first. Then apply via NASA’s Veterans Application platform. Centers review pools and reach out to matches.
NASA bans AI tools for application writing. All responses must be original, or you risk disqualification.
Benefits of the Program
Fellows get real NASA experience, mentorship, and networking. They learn federal workplace ways and build resumes with “NASA Fellow” credentials. This helps with future jobs in government or private sectors, even if no NASA hire is guaranteed.
NASA supports veterans with hiring paths and flexible work. Applications are rolling with no set deadline. Apply early in your last 180 days. Visit the NASA Service Member Fellowships page or application portal for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are NASA Service Member Fellowships 2026?
These fellowships let transitioning U.S. military members work on real space missions at NASA centers through the SkillBridge and Operation Warfighter programs. They offer up to 180 days of hands-on experience while still on active duty.
Who is eligible for the SkillBridge fellowship?
You must be in your final 180 days of service, available for at least 90 days, complete the Transition Assistance Program, and get command approval. Rules from your military branch also apply.
How do I apply for a fellowship?
For SkillBridge, get approval from your base education center and submit your profile on NASA’s platform. For Operation Warfighter, contact your regional coordinator and apply via the Veterans platform; NASA matches candidates to openings.
What benefits do fellows get?
Fellows gain real NASA work experience, mentorship, networking, and resume-building credentials. This helps with future jobs in government or private sectors, though hiring is not guaranteed.
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