Principal Flight Test Engineer

Your essential job functions will include but may not be limited to: Prepare mission execution schedules aligned with program timelines Coordinate test venues, assets, and participants across the DoD enterprise Manage logistics for complex test events and support operations with contract maintenance teams Facilitate safety processes and aircraft modification requirements Work with analysts, instrumentation engineers, and vendors to define data needs Deliver clear, concise, and timely reports that capture results and recommended follow‑on actions Provide senior flight test engineering expertise for USSOCOM Group 1-5 UAS system development Use experience operating Group 3 to Group 5 UAS to influence Command and Control, intra-swarm networks, data links, and data backhaul architectures Develop mission‑driven test objectives, plans, and documentation that guide successful execution Apply deep technical knowledge to evaluate system readiness and advise senior government leaders Evaluate and validate AI system performance, robustness, safety, and reliability using defined metrics and test frameworks Ability to communicate and collaborate across multiple disciplines; engineering, program management, and aircrew 8+ years in test and evaluation with a focus on Aviation developmental testing Understanding and significant experience with Group 5 UAS (such as MQ-9) command and control, airborne networks, and/or associated data links Experience/knowledge of open mission architecture, avionics, mission systems, munitions systems, and comm/radar systems Working knowledge of DoD and/or Air Force UAS test and evaluation policies Experience preparing flight test documents including test plans, safety reviews, and test cards Proficiency with Microsoft Office products Excellent written and oral communication skills Ability to travel to test events and program meetings Ability to obtain FAA Class 3 flight physical Ability to fly on military aircraft and operate in Ground Control Stations (GCS) or Control Rooms Bachelor of Science degree in engineering or science Master of Science degree in engineering or science Experience with Group 1-4 sUAS operations and/or testing on DoD ranges Autonomous system test experience Experience using Artificial Intelligence as a tool or in testing Test Pilot School graduate (USAF/USN/NTPS) Experience testing at various DoD test ranges Demonstrated planning, coordination and execution skills on AFSOC or similar aircraft platforms Knowledge of installed systems/subsystems and support equipment of AFSOC aircraft Knowledge of AFSOC avionics/mission systems, munitions systems and comm/radar systems DoD acquisition experience Must possess an active DoD Secret Clearance. A Top Secret (TS) security clearance (with SCI and SAP eligibility) is HIGHLY desired