Test Director - Aviation Simulation
Location: Arlington, TX
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role
CAE, a global leader in training and critical operations solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Test Director to join its Defense & Security business unit. This role is pivotal in ensuring the highest levels of mission readiness for military customers by revolutionizing training and operations with digitally immersive solutions.
The Test Director will be responsible for the comprehensive testing and evaluation of military single or multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft simulation training devices throughout their design, development, production, and sell-off phases. This position demands the ability to build, lead, and execute robust system test plans to meticulously evaluate program requirements, ensuring verified and validated outcomes prior to customer acceptance.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary Test Director for military aviation simulation programs.
- Provide critical program support for Research & Development (R&D) activities.
- Develop detailed Test Procedures (TP) based on aircraft functionality, program requirements, and derived needs.
- Proactively plan for and participate in meetings and reviews as a subject matter expert for assigned programs, including Program Team Meetings and Internal Program Reviews.
- Develop and present testing requirements for Customer Reviews, authoring, coordinating, and leading formal presentations as required by program mandates.
- Actively participate in new business development efforts, including Training Task Analysis, Training Media Analysis, Technical Specification reviews, and Request for Proposal (RFP) responses.
- Provide essential support to Program Managers as needed.
- Lead all test activities, fostering collaboration with both internal teams and external customers.
- Maintain a comprehensive and clear understanding of all requirements for assigned programs.
- Support marketing initiatives for prospective programs and provide operational input during the proposal stage.
Basic Qualifications and Education Requirements
- A minimum of 5 years of operational military aviation experience is required.
- Alternatively, 5+ years of aircraft, simulation, or technical experience may be considered.
- A Bachelor’s Degree in a technical field is preferred.
- Alternatively, 5+ years of flight, technical, simulation, or mechanical background may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory.
- Demonstrated excellent communication and leadership qualities to effectively support Engineering, Customers, and Operations Staff.
- Must possess or be eligible for a Department of Defense (DoD) Personal Security Clearance.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office products is required.
- Strong analytical and technical skills are essential.
- The ability to learn and proficiently operate a flight simulation device.
Preferred Skills
- Instructor/Standardization Pilot and/or Maintenance Test/Functional Check Flight Pilot qualification.
- Experience in military fast jet aviation is advantageous.
- Tactical Air Controller experience is a plus.
- The capability to apply aviation and technical knowledge to troubleshoot simulated or actual aircraft systems during device testing and development.
- Ability to assist in isolating and troubleshooting system faults.
Security Responsibilities
The incumbent must comply with all company security and data protection policies. They are personally responsible for the proper marking and handling of all information and materials. Disclosure of information to unauthorized personnel is prohibited. Accessing and storing government and proprietary information must be done electronically on company-provided resources. Eligibility for a DoD Personal Security Clearance is required. Due to U.S. Government contract requirements, only U.S. citizens are eligible for this role.
Work Environment
This is a full-time, non-remote position based in Arlington, Texas. The role requires the ability to sit for extended periods. Candidates must be able to navigate simulators, including climbing stairs and entering potentially restrictive cockpit spaces. Extensive travel, up to 50%, is required both domestically (CONUS) and internationally (OCONUS) for extended periods to support program work, site modifications, and installations. The work environment is professional office setting utilizing standard office equipment. Moderate work stress related to technical, schedule, and customer issues is anticipated. Extended work hours and occasional shift assignments may be necessary.
Note: This job description is not exhaustive. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
CAE USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Applicants needing reasonable accommodation should contact their recruiter.