The Society of Experimental Test Pilots | Instructor

The Role: Mission Systems Instructor/SME at Edwards AFB

ABSI Aerospace & Defense is currently seeking a highly qualified and experienced Mission Systems Instructor/Subject Matter Expert (SME) to provide critical support to the US Air Force Test Pilot School (USAF TPS) at Edwards AFB, CA. This pivotal role involves the comprehensive development and dynamic delivery of the Mission Systems portion of the USAF Test Pilot School's esteemed curriculum.

This in-residence course is conducted biannually within dedicated facilities at Edwards AFB. The curriculum delivers specialized education for future flight and space test professionals, encompassing a broad spectrum of topics including weapons systems, electro-optics, radar, electronic warfare (EW), communications systems, and other essential elements of modern aircraft and space vehicles.

The successful candidate will operate on-site at Edwards AFB, taking responsibility for coordinating, developing, and delivering engaging classroom instruction and practical hands-on exercises, all meticulously designed to achieve the course's stringent learning objectives. The position requires a profound understanding of DoD Test and Evaluation (T&E) principles, with a strong preference for individuals possessing extensive flight test or space system test experience. Essential expertise is needed in areas such as test planning, test conduct, and test reporting, alongside specialized knowledge in one or more disciplines including radar, electro-optics, communications, weapons integration, software development and test, or cyber security. Prior experience with Space Systems is highly desired.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

The Mission Systems Instructor/SME will be responsible for a variety of critical functions, including:

• Leveraging extensive experience to provide expert advice and guidance to the Mission Systems Technical Expert, and capably acting on their behalf during periods of absence.
• Providing paramount subject matter expertise and detailed analysis to develop and deliver comprehensive and engaging instruction across classroom, laboratory, and open-air environments. Key focus areas include optical sensors, radar, communications systems, electronic warfare, weapons, and cyber security/operations.
• Collaborating closely with the curriculum development team to continuously update and enhance the mission systems curriculum, ensuring its unwavering alignment with current flight and space technology advancements and evolving operational practices.
• Meticulously coordinating with the customer to ensure all course logistical and administrative support requirements are thoroughly planned and flawlessly executed for each class iteration.
• Developing and administering robust evaluations and assessments to precisely gauge student progress, proactively identify areas for improvement, and deliver constructive feedback to foster their sustained growth and professional development.
• Performing other duties as assigned to support the mission and objectives of the USAF Test Pilot School.

Required Qualifications

Candidates must possess the following essential qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in an engineering or scientific discipline combined with at least eight (8) years of experience in test and evaluation. A Bachelor’s degree with additional, directly relevant experience may be considered as an alternative.
• A thorough working knowledge of DoD Test and Evaluation processes within major acquisition programs.
• Demonstrated experience in the development and application of advanced test measures and test techniques.
• Proven instructional experience in a professional or academic setting.
• Expertise in Mission Systems, with a strong preference for experience encompassing both space and flight domains.
• Relevant experience supporting the test of space or air systems in the capacity of an engineer, analyst, or operator.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated comfort and proficiency in briefing personnel at all organizational levels.

Desired Qualifications

Highly competitive candidates will also ideally possess:

• Graduation from a recognized Test Pilot School (USAF, USN, Empire, or EPNER) is strongly preferred.
• Direct experience related to Space Systems.
• Professional instruction experience at an accredited educational institution.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and web-based collaborative resources such as SharePoint and Microsoft Teams.