Flight Test Engineer

PRIMARY PURPOSE

CNA is hiring for the role of Flight Test Engineer in the Systems, Tactics, and Force Development (STF) division. This role is located in-person at Edwards Air Force Base in California. STF is part of the Center for Naval Analyses, which is the Department of the Navy's Federally-Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC). Its mission is to provide analysis for decision-makers to support the development of tactics and employment of forces, the modernization and management of forces, and the establishment of integrated requirements.

The Flight Test Engineer will work with other engineers and project officers in tactical aircraft flight testing. They will be responsible for test planning, supporting test flight briefings/debriefings, providing real-time control room monitoring during test execution, coordination of data acquisition, post-test reporting, and support to mission data analysis and anomaly resolution efforts.

CNA fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Our flexible and engaging work environment encourages iterative and creative collaboration at every stage of the problem solving process. Our employees are committed to helping clients develop effective solutions to better manage their programs through scientific, data-driven approaches. We are looking for creative and innovative individuals to help carry out our mission.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND / OR DUTIES

1. Review and evaluate test requirements to develop flight test plans.
2. Provide mission control room support during flight test missions.
3. Maintain metrics and report on status of testing. Conduct initial analysis of flight test results and hand-off data and reported issues for further analysis.
4. Collaborate with other engineering disciplines and test operations personnel in the design and execution of tests, analysis of data, and reporting of results, including the interpretation of the significance of the findings.
5. Draft reports and technical papers on the results of developmental and/or experimental flight testing of the aircraft. Compile, reduce, format, analyze and present test data.
6. Provide subject matter expert support to sponsors, project directors, Research Program Directors, and the Division Vice President on issues related to leadership, personnel and readiness.
7. Work proactively within scope of assigned tasks.
8. Perform other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

1. Education: Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), aeronautical engineering or related field, or equivalent combination of education and/or work experience. Advanced degree preferred.
2. Experience: Three years of applicable experience, including test planning, reporting and analysis.
3. Skills:
   
   
   
   • Ability to apply practical knowledge of aerospace engineering to flight testing principles and concepts applicable to the developmental and system testing including radio frequency and optical sensor theory.
   • Basic knowledge on the theory and applicability of aerodynamics and propulsion.
   • Ability to apply specialized personnel and readiness expertise and judgment in complex and high-visibility projects.
   • Demonstrated expertise in dealing with analytic aspects of expertise area.
   • Ability to identify issues, develop advanced, viable solutions and find ways to contribute in an unstructured environment.
   • Ability to clearly and effectively interact and communicate with CNA research staff and management, and sponsors; demonstrated initiative.
   • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong interpersonal skills, written and oral communication skills; Works under limited supervision.
   
   
   
   
4. Clearance: Must possess a current, active Secret level security clearance upon hire. Preference for candidates with a Top Secret clearance upon hire.
5. In-Person:
   
   
   
   • Relocation assistance is provided.
   • This position is not eligible for telecommuting or hybrid work arrangements.
   • Occasional flexible work schedule may be possible at the discretion of the Supervisor.
   
   
   
   
6. Cover Letter: Please provide a cover letter along with your application.

CNA follows a broad band compensation framework that considers a range of criteria in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience; degree, certifications, other business and organizational needs. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $105K - $117K.