Senior Quality Engineer

  • Location: Denver, Colorado
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7399
  • Salary: NON 126,000

An innovative aerospace technology company developing high-reliability communication systems for space and airborne platforms is seeking a Senior Quality Engineer to lead continuous improvement initiatives across engineering and manufacturing operations.

 

This role is ideal for a hands-on quality leader who combines Lean, Six Sigma, and structured problem-solving methodologies to drive measurable operational impact.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Identify improvement opportunities and implement root cause countermeasures
  • Lead Kaizen events and cross-functional process improvement initiatives
  • Develop and execute Value Stream Mapping (VSM) roadmaps aligned with business objectives
  • Champion Lean and Six Sigma principles across engineering and manufacturing teams
  • Mentor and develop internal Lean practitioners
  • Conduct machine capability (CmK) and measurement system (GR&R) studies
  • Support AS9100 / ISO9001 audits and QMS compliance activities
  • Develop and track performance metrics to drive operational excellence

 

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree (Engineering or related field preferred)
  • 5+ years of experience in quality engineering or continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment
  • Experience working within AS9100 or ISO9001 Quality Management Systems
  • Proven experience leading Kaizen events and eliminating waste
  • Strong background in Root Cause Analysis, Lean, Six Sigma, and Value Stream Mapping
  • Strong communication and cross-functional leadership skills

 

Preferred

  • Aerospace or high-reliability electronics manufacturing experience
  • Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification
  • AS9100 / ISO auditor experience

Senior Mission Assurance Manager

  • Location: Denver, Colorado
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7398
  • Salary: NON 192,000

? Senior Mission Assurance Manager

? Austin, TX | Onsite

I’m currently supporting a rapidly growing aerospace and defense company developing advanced communications and electronic systems for satellites, spacecraft, and mission-critical airborne platforms.

They’re looking for a Senior Mission Assurance Manager to lead mission assurance activities across complex DoD and space programs, ensuring the highest standards of quality, reliability, and compliance throughout product development and delivery.

This is a senior leadership opportunity for someone who thrives in highly technical, fast-paced environments and enjoys working closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and government stakeholders.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading mission assurance activities across DoD and internal programs

• Establishing and executing mission assurance plans aligned to AS9100 and customer requirements

• Supporting design reviews, qualification reviews, audits, and hardware acceptance reviews

• Acting as the primary interface for internal, customer, and government audits

• Leading FMECA, RCCA, MRB, and FRB activities for nonconformances and anomalies

• Driving supplier and subcontractor quality strategy and compliance

• Collaborating cross-functionally to support business objectives and continuous improvement initiatives

• Managing and mentoring mission assurance and quality professionals

What they’re looking for:

• 15+ years within Mission Assurance, Quality, or Reliability Engineering

• Direct experience supporting complex DoD or aerospace programs

• 5+ years of leadership or management experience

• Strong knowledge of AS9100 and defense industry quality standards

• Background within aerospace, defense, or space systems

• Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills

• Ability to operate independently in high-accountability environments

• Eligibility to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance preferred

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a cutting-edge aerospace organization where mission assurance plays a critical role in delivering reliable, high-performance systems for defense and space applications.

If you'd like to learn more, feel free to reach out directly.

Quality Control Inspector III

  • Location: Denver, Colorado
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7395
  • Salary: NON 78,000

An innovative aerospace technology company developing advanced communication systems for space and airborne platforms is seeking an experienced Quality Control Inspector III to support its growing production operations.

 

This organization designs and manufactures mission-critical electronic and electromechanical systems used in demanding environments. The team operates in a highly collaborative, cross-functional setting where quality, precision, and accountability are essential.

 

This role is ideal for an experienced inspector ready to take on broader inspection scope, greater ownership, and increased involvement in quality process improvement.

 

The Role

As a Quality Control Inspector III, you will execute and support quality control processes across incoming materials, in-process manufacturing, and final assembly. You will work closely with engineering, supply chain, and production teams to ensure all products meet internal and customer requirements within a regulated quality management environment.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Execute quality control processes for purchased materials, manufacturing operations, and customer deliverables
  • Inspect raw materials, EEE components, machined parts, cable assemblies, PCB/PCBAs, subassemblies, and top-level assemblies
  • Perform dimensional inspection using calipers, thread gauges, height gauges, and VMMs/CMMs
  • Conduct microscopic visual inspection per IPC standards
  • Document inspection results within ERP/PLM systems and electronic quality records
  • Support development and improvement of inspection plans, procedures, and quality processes
  • Assist in resolving internal and external nonconformances using root cause analysis and 8D methodology
  • Support MRB activities and non-conforming material disposition
  • Contribute to audit preparation and corrective action responses
  • Assist with quality metrics reporting and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Manage day-to-day inspection priorities to ensure timely turnaround

 

Required Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree or technical training preferred
  • 3–5 years of relevant inspection experience in a manufacturing environment
  • Experience working within AS9100 or ISO9001 Quality Management Systems
  • IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001 certification
  • Experience with microscopic inspection
  • Proficiency reading engineering drawings, CAD documentation, and detailed work instructions
  • Experience using ERP and PLM systems
  • Strong attention to detail and process discipline
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to collaborate effectively across technical teams

 

Preferred Experience

  • Aerospace, defense, or high-reliability electronics manufacturing
  • Experience inspecting electromechanical assemblies

 

Why This Opportunity?

  • Competitive hourly compensation
  • Exposure to complex, mission-critical aerospace hardware
  • High-visibility role within a precision-driven production environment
  • Opportunity to contribute to quality system enhancement in a scaling organization

Quality Control Inspector (PCB/PCBA) (2nd Shift)

  • Location: Austin, Texas
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7394
  • Salary: NON 75,000

An innovative aerospace technology company developing next-generation communication systems for space and airborne platforms is seeking a Quality Control Inspector (2nd Shift) to join its growing production team.

 

This organisation designs and manufactures high-performance satellite communication hardware and advanced electronic systems for mission-critical applications. The environment is fast-paced, hands-on, and highly collaborative, ideal for someone who thrives in technical manufacturing settings and takes pride in precision.

 

The Role

As a Quality Control Inspector, you will play a key role in ensuring that electronic assemblies and components meet stringent quality and customer requirements. Working alongside engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams, you will help maintain the highest standards across inspection, documentation, and continuous improvement processes.

 

This is a second-shift position supporting production of advanced aerospace-grade communication systems.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Execute quality control processes for incoming materials, in-process manufacturing, and final inspection activities
  • Inspect printed circuit boards and assemblies (PCB/PCBAs), EEE components, and cable assemblies
  • Perform inspections using calipers, thread gauges, height gauges, and Vision Measuring Machines (VMM)
  • Conduct microscopic visual inspection per IPC standards
  • Accurately document inspection results using ERP/PLM systems and electronic quality records
  • Support development and improvement of inspection methods, procedures, and quality plans
  • Assist with nonconformance investigations using root cause analysis and 8D methodology
  • Support MRB activities and disposition of non-conforming materials
  • Contribute to internal and external audit responses
  • Assist with data analysis, reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Maintain efficient daily workflow and turnaround times

 

Required Qualifications

  • High School Diploma or equivalent (Associate degree in a technical field preferred)
  • Minimum 5 years of relevant experience, including at least 2 years in PCB/PCBA inspection
  • Experience working within AS9100 or ISO9001 Quality Management Systems
  • IPC-A-610 and/or J-STD-001 certification
  • Experience with microscopic visual inspection
  • Proficiency reading engineering drawings, CAD files, and detailed work instructions
  • Experience using ERP and PLM systems
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow structured processes
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based production environment

 

Preferred Experience

  • Aerospace, defense, or high-reliability electronics manufacturing experience
  • Experience working with electromechanical assemblies

 

Why Join?

  • Work on mission-critical aerospace hardware
  • Be part of a highly technical, cross-functional production team
  • Hands-on role with direct impact on flight-quality systems
  • Opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement in a scaling organisation

 

If you're a quality professional who enjoys precision work, technical complexity, and contributing to high-performance hardware, this is an opportunity to be part of something meaningful

Software Engineering Manager

  • Location: Orange County, California
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7364
  • Salary: NON 210,000

Software Engineering Manager
Location: Irvine, CA (ONSITE)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Salary Range: $160,000 – $210,000


About the Role
We are seeking a highly technical Software Engineering Manager to lead the development, deployment, and long-term evolution of mission-critical software systems supporting advanced space-based and terrestrial platforms. This leader will oversee a multi-disciplinary engineering team spanning DevOps, DevSecOps, Site Reliability Engineering (SRE), and Full-Stack development.
The team operates primarily within AWS cloud environments, with hybrid on-prem solutions to optimize performance, cost, and operational resilience. This role requires a forward-thinking technical visionary who understands both legacy system constraints and modern cloud-native architectures.
This is a hands-on leadership role. The expectation is that you will contribute technically to the codebase approximately 40% of the time while leading people, driving architecture decisions, and ensuring successful execution across programs.


Key Responsibilities

  • Remain hands-on with code while managing the team, demonstrating active contributions to production systems
  • Architect and guide the development of scalable, resilient cloud-based mission systems
  • Lead a multi-functional team including DevOps, DevSecOps, SRE, and Full-Stack engineers
  • Provide mentorship, coaching, and performance management to build and sustain high-performing engineering teams
  • Drive strong technical design reviews and ensure adherence to engineering best practices
  • Apply strong analytical and critical thinking skills across the full technology stack
  • Clearly communicate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Influence architectural and business decisions through strong cross-functional collaboration
  • Manage multiple concurrent initiatives, prioritize effectively, and ensure delivery in a dynamic environment
  • Partner closely with product and program management teams to align engineering execution with mission goals

Required Technical Qualifications

  • Extensive experience designing and deploying systems within AWS cloud environments
  • Hands-on experience with containerization technologies including Kubernetes and Docker
  • Strong frontend experience with React.js (hooks, context API, state management) and TypeScript, including scaling complex user interfaces
  • Backend proficiency with Python frameworks (Django, Flask, FastAPI) and Go
  • Experience with SQL and NoSQL databases and API design principles (RESTful, GraphQL)
  • Proficiency with Git-based version control systems

Required Experience

  • 6+ years of professional experience in cloud-based software development
  • 2+ years in an engineering leadership or management role
  • Experience working closely with product and program management stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to balance technical contribution with people leadership

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with Next.js for server-side rendering and production-ready web applications
  • Experience with modern testing frameworks (Jest, React Testing Library, Cypress) and test-driven development practices
  • Strong understanding of modern web development principles including HTML5, CSS3, accessibility standards, responsive design, and performance optimization

Why Join

  • Lead development of mission-critical systems that support real-world operational use cases
  • Influence architectural direction for both cloud-native and hybrid infrastructure environments
  • Build and scale high-impact engineering teams
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package

Test and Launch Engineering Lead

  • Location: Lafayette, Colorado
  • Remote: Hybrid
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7358
  • Salary: NON 180,000

Title
Test and Launch Engineering Lead

Job type
Full-time employee

Location(s)
295 Interlocken Blvd, Ste 175, Broomfield, CO 80021

Overview

The Test and Launch Engineering Lead is responsible for designing, permitting, building, integrating, and operating all of LEAP’s rocket engine test stands, stage test stands, and launch site infrastructure.

This role combines deep technical ownership with day-to-day leadership of a multidisciplinary engineering team. You will drive the architecture and implementation of propulsion test systems, fluid and pressurization systems, structural and civil infrastructure, GSE, controls, and safety systems required to support engine development, stage testing, and flight operations. You will be accountable for delivering safe, reliable, and operationally efficient test and launch infrastructure on aggressive start-up timelines.

Description
Impacts & Outcomes  

  • Convert green field sites into fully operational propulsion and stage test facilities, delivering a 30klbf-class engine and stage test stand that is permitted, constructed, commissioned, and capable of supporting integrated hot fire campaigns on schedule 
  • Own end-to-end permitting and regulatory approvals (federal, state, and local), ensuring all test and launch infrastructure meets applicable requirements without impacting program schedule. (Required)
  • Design, integrate, and commission launch site infrastructure that supports safe, repeatable vehicle operations, ensuring launch readiness aligns with vehicle development milestones 
  • Establish complete test and launch system architecture (fluids, structural, civil, GSE, controls, DAQ, safety), resulting in reliable, maintainable, and scalable infrastructure that reduces turnaround time and operational risk 
  • Drive hazard analyses, safety reviews, and operational readiness reviews, ensuring all test and launch operations meet regulatory, environmental, and internal safety standards without delaying program timelines 
  • Own execution from concept through commissioning, delivering infrastructure that performs to thrust, flow rate, pressure, thermal, and structural requirements under representative operating conditions 
  • Build and lead a high-performing multidisciplinary engineering team, increasing technical depth, execution speed, and cross-functional coordination across propulsion, vehicle, and operations groups 
  • Identify infrastructure risks early (technical, regulatory, environmental, schedule), preventing test stand or launch site constraints from becoming critical path blockers to engine, stage, or flight milestones 
  • Develop repeatable operational procedures for test and launch campaigns, resulting in efficient, disciplined execution with minimal rework, incident rate reduction, and improved data quality 
  • Support scaling from early development campaigns to higher-frequency test and launch operations, ensuring systems are designed with growth, maintainability, and long-term reliability in mind 

 
What You Bring to the Team 

  • B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, or related engineering field. (Required)  
  • 7–12+ years of experience in: (Required)  
  • Rocket engine testing, propulsion test facilities, or 
  • High-pressure fluid systems (cryogenic and/or hazardous), or 
  • Launch site or large-scale industrial infrastructure development. 
  • Proven experience leading engineering teams. 
  • Strong background in: (Required)  
  • Cryogenic fluid systems 
  • High-pressure gas systems 
  • Structural load paths and foundations 
  • Industrial controls and DAQ systems 
  • Experience with system-level hazard analysis and safety-critical design. (Required)  
  • Ability to operate in fast-paced, resource-constrained startup environments. 

 
Bonus Points 

  • Direct experience designing or operating rocket test stands. 
  • Experience with LOX/LNG facilities. 
  • Experience commissioning large industrial facilities. 
  • Familiarity with FAA launch licensing and environmental permitting. 
  • Background in launch pad operations or range integration. 

 
Compensation  

Salary Range: $150,000 – $180,000 
The estimated salary range for this role reflects various compensation factors. The final offer depends on factors such as work experience, education, training, key skills, and business needs.  
In addition, LEAP provides a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, which includes:  

  • Equity Program: Equity plan participation is available to all employees following an initial 90-day employment period and is performance-based. Equity allocations are determined on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed. Managers may make recommendations based on individual and team performance. All equity grants are subject to executive review and approval in accordance with the Company’s equity plan. 
  • Retirement Planning: Save for the future with a 401(k) plan that includes competitive company matching.  
  • Growth Opportunities: Take advantage of a professional development stipend to advance your skills and expertise.  
  • Flexible Time Off: Enjoy PTO as needed and holiday breaks to help you balance work and life, including two week long company winter breaks and paid leave to support a family member, bond with a new child, or manage your own health needs  
  • Remote Work Flexibility: Our team operates on a hybrid model. We expect you to work with your team for specific details on work location.  
  • Health Benefits: LEAP provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage at minimal to no cost for employees. Coverage for dependents and HSA are also available.  
  • Insurance Coverage: We cover basic life and long-term disability insurance, with options to add extra coverage to ensure peace of mind for you and your family.  

LEAP is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace in Colorado. Our team brings together exceptionally talented and diverse individuals who are pushing the boundaries of space access and logistics. We welcome all qualified applicants and provide equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. This includes individuals with a criminal history, in compliance with applicable regulations. We actively encourage applications from minorities, women, Veterans, and people with disabilities. At LEAP, we strive to create a supportive and welcoming environment throughout the hiring process. If you’re excited about making a real-world impact in space technology, we want to hear from you! 

CFO

  • Location: Eveleigh, New South Wales
  • Remote: Remote
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7357
  • Salary: NON 250,000

We are representing a venture-backed, deep-tech semiconductor company building critical infrastructure for next-generation AI and high-performance computing systems.

With significant capital raised and a major growth round in motion, the business is preparing to scale toward commercial manufacturing over the next 24–36 months. The next raise is expected to exceed $100m.

You will:

  • Lead large-scale institutional fundraising ($50m–$100m+)

  • Architect the financial strategy ahead of manufacturing ramp

  • Build institutional-grade reporting, systems and controls

  • Own long-range forecasting in a capital-intensive environment

  • Structure and negotiate complex commercial and supply chain agreements

  • Partner directly with the CEO as a strategic co-pilot

  • Prepare the business for global scale, defence exposure and Tier 1 partnerships

This is a pre-revenue environment moving toward low- and high-volume manufacturing over the next 2–3 years.

We are looking for a CFO who has:

  • Operated in semiconductor, advanced hardware, tooling, or deep-tech manufacturing

  • Raised significant growth capital from institutional or sovereign investors

  • Built finance infrastructure from early stage to scale

  • Strong commercial judgment and real contract negotiation experience

  • Comfort operating in technically complex, engineering-led environments

  • Gravitas with investors, boards and strategic partners

Propellant Chemist

  • Location: Sacramento, California
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7350
  • Salary: NON 135,000

Propellant Chemist III – Defense

 

An innovative defense and space technology organization developing mission-critical propulsion and aerospace systems is seeking a Propellant Chemist to join its growing engineering team. 

 

This company delivers advanced solutions supporting national security and next-generation space platforms, operating in a fast-paced, highly technical environment focused on performance, reliability, and innovation.

 

Role Overview

This position focuses on the design, analysis, testing, and system-level integration of solid rocket motor propulsion systems.

 

 The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with propellant chemistry, combustion mechanisms, ballistic performance analysis, and motor design trade studies. 

 

You will contribute across the full lifecycle, from conceptual design and simulation through manufacturing support and test validation.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and analyze solid rocket motor designs, including grain configurations and ballistic performance
  • Perform trade studies and design optimization across propulsion systems
  • Analyze igniter performance and combustion characteristics
  • Support propellant formulation, manufacturing processes, and quality considerations
  • Generate detailed 2D/3D CAD models and technical drawings, applying GD&T standards
  • Conduct mass calculations, contribute to mass budgets, and support performance optimization
  • Develop test plans, support assembly and integration activities, and analyze test data
  • Participate in system-level requirements development, risk management, and reliability analysis
  • Support technical documentation including reports, presentations, and engineering reviews
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams across design, manufacturing, systems engineering, and testing

 

Required Qualifications

  • 4–7 years of mechanical or aerospace engineering experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline
  • Strong understanding of solid rocket motor performance principles including thrust, specific impulse, and combustion
  • Experience with CAD tools and engineering drawing interpretation
  • U.S. Citizenship required
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance

 

Preferred Qualifications

  • Direct experience in rocket motor design and testing
  • Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • Familiarity with propulsion system integration and ballistic modeling
  • Experience supporting hardware testing and data analysisv

Software Engineer – Embedded I

  • Location: Folsom, California
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7338
  • Salary: NON 110,000

Software Engineer I – Embedded

Folsom, CA (Hybrid)
Defense & National Security
 Full-Time
$75,000 – $110,000

An innovative defense and national security engineering organisation is seeking an Embedded Software Engineer to support the development of advanced airborne ISR and mission-critical systems.

This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer who is excited to work on complex, real-world systems in a highly collaborative, small-team environment.


The Opportunity

You’ll contribute to the design, development, and testing of embedded and Linux-based software supporting advanced intelligence and defense technologies.

The role offers exposure across the full software lifecycle, working alongside systems engineers, technical leads, and programme managers on high-impact projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • Support software analysis, design, development, and testing

  • Collaborate across software and systems engineering teams

  • Evaluate and integrate commercial and open-source technologies

  • Contribute to architectural prototyping and system improvements

  • Assist in preparing technical briefings and documentation

  • Participate in customer and technical review meetings


Requirements

  • 1–2 years of commercial experience in Engineering or Computer Science

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

  • Experience with C, C++, or similar systems programming languages (Linux environment)

  • Comfortable working with command-line interfaces

  • Experience with shell and/or Python scripting

  • Understanding of network fundamentals (IP addressing, subnetting, protocols)

  • Basic knowledge of object-oriented design, distributed systems, and embedded concepts

  • Strong communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative team

Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)


Preferred

  • Active DoD Top Secret SCI clearance

Senior Software Engineer – ACE Applications Lead (Mechanical/Propulsion/PCB)

  • Remote: Remote
  • Type: Permanent
  • Job #7335
  • Salary: NON 250,000

Senior Software Engineer – Agentic Computational Engineering (Mechanical / Propulsion / PCB)

 

An innovative and rapidly growing defense and space technology organization is seeking a Senior Software Engineer – Agentic Computational Engineering Applications Lead to drive AI-powered hardware design across propulsion, mechanical systems, and PCB development.

 

This role sits within a specialist advanced technology group building an AI-native generative engineering platform designed to compress hardware development cycles from years to days. The team integrates physics simulation, CAD automation, and manufacturing constraints directly into intelligent design systems.

 

The Role

You will lead the development of AI-driven applications capable of generating and validating real, production-ready designs for complex systems such as propulsion hardware, structural components, and radiation-hardened electronics.

 

Key responsibilities include:

  • Owning the roadmap for AI applications that generate 3D geometry or end-to-end PCB designs from performance requirements
  • Leading automated workflows between MCAD, ECAD, and simulation tools such as CFD, FEA, thermal, and signal integrity solvers
  • Embedding real-world manufacturing constraints into automated design validation
  • Developing topology optimization and generative design workflows that produce build-ready geometry
  • Collaborating with propulsion, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to validate AI-generated designs against test data
  • Mentoring junior engineers and AI specialists
  • Driving experimentation around simulation acceleration and new generative methods

 

Required Experience

  • Master’s degree with 5+ years of experience, or PhD with 3+ years, in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Computational Engineering
  • Experience across both mechanical and PCB domains
  • Experience designing and analyzing hardware that operates in demanding environments
  • Strong programming skills in Python or C++
  • Experience automating CAD or CAE tools such as SolidWorks, Creo, Ansys, COMSOL, Star-CCM+, or ECAD tools such as Altium
  • Hands-on familiarity with CFD, FEA, SPICE, or related numerical methods
  • Proven ability to lead cross-functional engineering initiatives
  • Clear evidence of a builder mindset and pushing engineering tools beyond standard workflows

 

Highly Desirable

  • Background in topology or shape optimization
  • Experience with CAD/EDA automation or auto-routing
  • Practical fabrication experience such as machining or additive manufacturing
  • Propulsion, plasma physics, or fluid dynamics experience
  • Experience applying AI or automation to hardware development workflows
  • Personal engineering projects demonstrating hands-on capability

 

Additional Information

Due to export control regulations, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorization.