Top Secret Instrumentation Engineer

Key Responsibilities

• Daily Test Mission Support – Preflight
• Cook up test aircraft access with squadron maintenance teams.
• Conduct visual inspections of the data acquisition system and associated harnesses.
• Load media into data recorders and verify proper mounting.
• Confirm data recorder bus link status is active and ready for flight.
• Daily Test Mission Support – Postflight
• Recover recorded media from aircraft and deliver it to the data processing team.
• Ensure the data system is properly powered down after each sortie.
• Data System Maintenance
• Notify the Operations Engineer of anomalies identified during debriefs or post-flight inspections.
• Perform corrective actions on open issues per Operations Engineer disposition.
• Maintain accurate records of system status, modifications, and repairs.
• Logistics & Lab Support
• Provide support for instrumentation logistics activities (parts, shipments, inventory).
• Support lab operations, including bench testing, configuration, and equipment preparation.

Required Skills

• A U.S. Citizen with an active Top Secret (TS/SCI) DoD security clearance, eligible for Special Access Program (SAP) read-in.
• A technical background in electronics, avionics, instrumentation, or a closely related field.
• The ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and system specifications.
• A strong attention to detail and disciplined documentation practices.
• The ability to work on the flight line in an outdoor environment, including occasional lifting and extended periods standing.
• A willingness to support very infrequent travel as required by mission needs.

Desired Skills

• Hands-on experience with USAF flight test instrumentation on platforms such as F-35, F-22, F-15E, or F-16.
• A working knowledge of military maintenance systems such as the Integrated Maintenance Data System (IMDS).
• Experience with bus-based data acquisition systems (e.g., MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, Ethernet-based telemetry).
• A demonstrated initiative, sound judgment, and strong communication skills when coordinating across maintenance, engineering, and operations teams.
• A comfort level working in a secure, mission-driven environment with shifting priorities.

Benefits

• We offer excellent benefits and compensation packages.
• The expected hourly rate range for this role is: $50 – 70 per hour.
• The posted range is an estimate, the actual compensation offer will be based on the candidate’s experience, skills, qualifications and will be in line with internal equity.