Staff Engineer Systems Test

Relocation assistance may be available. This position requires an active US Government Secret clearance and the ability to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance. Travel is required, up to 50% of the time.

About the Role

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems (NGAS) has an immediate opening for a Flight, Ground and/or Safety Operations Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Flight & Ground Operations Standardization Team (FGOST). This leadership role supports the Test and Evaluation (T&E) Center of Technical Excellence (CoTE) through execution of internal evaluations and procedural management for safety and flight & ground operations. The position is full-time onsite at one of the following locations: Melbourne, FL; Palmdale, CA; Rancho Bernardo, CA; or Oklahoma City, OK.

This role requires expert knowledge of DCMA 8210.1 series, FAA Part 91, and NGAS requirements and processes as they apply to all NGAS programs and fielded operations. The SME will ensure standardization of flight, ground, and safety operations across the NGAS sector, evaluate programs, and promote a governance model for oversight of all NGAS operations.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Flight, Ground, or Safety Operations SME at government and industry working groups.
• Audit Flight Programs and fielded operations annually in accordance with DCMA 8210.1, FAA Part 91, and NGAS requirements.
• Assist programs and sites with resolution to audit findings; track and ensure closure.
• Conduct trend analysis for Flight Test and fielded operations audits; develop, implement, and drive process improvements.
• Assist programs during GFR and AOI audits; ensure appropriate response to corrective actions.
• Support all Working Groups activities and participate in NG Airworthiness Working Groups.
• Lead or participate in NGAS Flight or Ground Operations-related CPATS, CARs, RCCA, and IRTs.
• Manage all FGCOP, SOP, and MRPs; serve as FGOST representative for PrOP reviews, updates, and cancellations.
• Support FGCOP/SOP/MRP document owners through notification of required updates/reviews.
• Provide up-to-date tracking and status management of FGCOP/SOP/MRP and referenced documentation.
• Manage the Technical Operations Database, including all FGCOPs, SOPs, MRPs, and Reference Documents.
• Conduct trend analysis for NGAS Flight Test and fielded operations audits; collaborate with the Flight Test Technical Discipline on process improvements.
• Act as Aviation Safety Official; lead and implement the Safety Management System (SMS).
• Serve as Process Lead with oversight of the flight test operations database for all flight programs.
• Act as liaison between PrOP Focal Points, PrOP Analyst, FGOST, Technical Disciplines, Site and Program Leadership, customer, and Government Flight Representative (GFR).
• Become qualified to instruct on the use of the Safety Management System (SMS) and Safe & Just Culture.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM discipline AND 12 years of related professional/military experience, OR a Master’s degree AND 10 years of related professional/military experience.
• Active US Government Secret clearance (with a background investigation within the past 6 years or enrolled in Continuous Evaluation).
• Ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance and US Government Top Secret clearance.
• Experience in aircraft maintenance, flight operations, flight test engineering, or flight safety.
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current TS/SCI and SAP clearances.
• U.S. Military flight operations, maintenance, quality, test, or safety experience.
• Familiarity with DCMA & DoD regulations and procedures; prior DCMA experience (GFR or GGR).
• Experience building intranet websites or databases for information, collaboration, and project tracking.
• Experience in Safety Management Systems.
• Expert-level knowledge of MS Office apps and Project for reports, metrics, and executive presentations.
• Excellent vertical and horizontal communication skills.

Pay

Primary salary range: $139,000.00 – $241,200.00. The final offer considers scope, responsibilities, candidate experience, education, skills, and current market conditions. Eligible employees may receive overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses reward individual contributions and company results. Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Savings plan.
• Company-paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.