PRIMARY PURPOSE

CNA is hiring for a Senior Principal 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 to support the development of tactics and employment of forces, the modernization and management of forces, and the establishment of integrated requirements. Analysts support decision-makers by quantifying naval warfighting capabilities and limitations under realistic employment conditions; developing empirical or theoretical estimates for the performance of fleet systems and platforms; and developing creative solutions to complex tactical and force design challenges.

The Senior Principal Flight Test Engineer is the primary mission systems discipline engineer, capable of training new test engineers and liaising with government officers in tactical aircraft flight testing. They are responsible for test planning, leading test briefings / debriefings when required, 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, and may perform Test Conductor duties.

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. Conduct and lead execution of flight missions as Test Conductor.
3. Verify and report on status of test program. Review any initial analysis of flight test results and hand-off data and reported issues for further analysis.
4. Collaborate with government or contractor engineering analysis 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 independently and proactively within scope of assigned tasks, coordinating directly with government leadership to accomplish assigned missions.
8. Provide training to junior flight test engineers on the conduct of tactical aircraft mission systems test.
9. Perform other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• 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.
• Experience: Eight years of work experience, including test planning, execution, reporting and analysis. Advanced degree preferred.
• Skills:
  • Ability to apply practical knowledge of aerospace engineering and flight test principles to developmental test of radio frequency and optical sensors or networks.
  • Basic knowledge on the theory and applicability of aerodynamics and propulsion.
  • Demonstrated ability to identify issues and develop viable solutions to produce team-wide results in a developing flight test structure.
  • Self-starter with innovative approach and technical expertise to complete complex assignments.
  • Strong ability to clearly and effectively interact with CNA research staff, management, and sponsors.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, written and oral communication skills, with the ability to teach and mentor less-experienced engineers.
• Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret security clearance.
  • Final Secret clearance with investigation or CV date within 5 years at time of hiring.
• 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.

Documents: Please include as part of your application, a resume and cover letter.