Flight Sciences Technical Expert (General Engineer, NH-0801-04)

Location: USAF Test Pilot School, Edwards Air Force Base, CA

Salary Range: $146,632 – $197,200 (includes LA County locality)

Closing Date: 10 July 2026

Position Overview

The USAF Test Pilot School (TPS) is seeking a nationally and internationally recognized Flight Sciences Technical Expert to serve as a Senior Advisor, Curriculum Developer, and Master’s Degree Educator. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of test and evaluation by mentoring the next generation of test leaders, including aviators, engineers, and space vehicle operators. The incumbent will collaborate with the Air Force Test Center (AFTC), Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), Naval Test Pilot School, NAVAIR, Department of Defense agencies, and international partners.

Key Responsibilities

Senior Advisor: Provide expert technical guidance and leadership to the Commandant and Technical Director regarding Flight Sciences Test education.
Curriculum Developer: Define, integrate, and implement graduate-level Flight Sciences curriculum, ensuring the inclusion of state-of-the-art test technology, safety planning, and advanced data analysis methods.
Master’s Degree Educator: Lead academic instruction, simulator sessions, and laboratory training, educating students on evaluating aerospace vehicles, identifying deficiencies, and reporting data-driven results.
Technical Representative: Act as a subject matter expert and advisor at national and international symposia, conferences, and for government/allied agency reporting.
Research and Mentorship: Mentor student Test Management Projects and lead staff research in fields such as autonomy, AI/ML control, cyber warfare, and sensor development.

Flying Opportunities

The position offers opportunities for Instructor Flight Test Engineer flying in various military and qualitative evaluation aircraft. Depending on candidate background, potential roles include Instructor Pilot in gliders, Cessnas, F-16s, T-38s, or C-12s, as well as Safety Pilot duties in the X-62 VISTA.

Qualifications and Requirements

U.S. Citizenship: Required.
Security Clearance: Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Security clearance with eligibility for SCI and SAP access.
Education: Master’s Degree in Engineering required.
Experience: 10+ years of experience in test.
Highly Desired: PhD in Aero, Mechanical, Electrical, or Astro Engineering; prior teaching or simulator experience; graduate of a military Test Pilot School.
Desired: Experience as a Flight Test Conductor or Test Director; active membership in professional organizations (e.g., AIAA, SETP, SFTE, ITEA); ability to meet USAF Flying Class III physical requirements, including the ability to fly ejection seat aircraft.

Logistics

This position is eligible for recruitment or relocation incentives, subject to discussion with the Selecting Official.
Situational telework is permitted; however, this position is not approved for remote work.
Travel: Up to 25% travel may be required.