Systems Development Engineer (part-time/on-call)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.

We are searching for a part-time Senior Advanced Systems Development Engineer to provide high-level engineering expertise in the design, development, integration, and testing of advanced aerospace systems at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC).

As a part-time Senior Advanced Systems Development Engineer, you are required to possess a deep knowledge of the following:

Advanced Flight and Ground System Engineering:

Lead the design, integration, and testing of flight research systems.
• Develop and manage system architectures, block diagrams, and interface control documents (ICDs).
• Perform requirements derivation, allocation, and traceability for complex aerospace systems.
• Support verification and validation (V&V) testing to ensure system compliance with NASA and FAA regulations.
• Manage risk assessment and mitigation strategies for flight systems and safety-critical components.

Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) and System Safety:

• Develop and implement SHM strategies for aircraft structural integrity assessments.
• Utilize advanced sensors and predictive analytics for fault detection and prevention.
• Oversee testing, calibration, and analysis of SHM technologies for flight-critical applications.

Systems Engineering and Integration:

• Define and manage system requirements, risk management, and integration strategies.
• Oversee software and hardware integration for avionics, propulsion, and control systems.
• Conduct airworthiness evaluations, failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), and hazard analysis.
• Ensure compliance with NASA Systems Engineering Handbook (NASA/SP-2007-6105, Rev 1) and flight certification requirements.

Leadership, Research, and Project Management:

• Serve as technical lead and mentor for engineering teams and junior engineers.
• Drive research and development (R&D) initiatives, supporting NASA's aerospace advancements.
• Lead design reviews, risk assessments, and strategic planning for flight test programs.
• Coordinate with NASA engineers, government contractors, and research institutions to align project goals.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Physical Science with 5-7+ years of experience

Technical Skills & Knowledge:

• Expertise in aerospace systems engineering, including avionics, aerodynamics, and structural analysis.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, CAD software, and data analysis tools.
• Extensive experience with NASA flight test processes, aerospace system integration, and flight safety regulations.
• Strong background in SHM, predictive maintenance, and aircraft sensor integration.
• Knowledge of FAA, NASA, and DoD safety and certification requirements.

Soft Skills & Work Environment:

• Proven ability to lead engineering teams and manage complex projects.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent technical communication and presentation skills for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to travel as required for technical reviews, test flights, and NASA research engagements.
  
  

Work Environment & Additional Information:

• • Primary work location: Remote
  • Must comply with NASA ISO AS9100 procedures and all relevant aerospace regulations.
  • Travel required for design reviews, technical meetings, and flight test support.