Aircraft Optical Windows Systems Engineer

Job Description:

Analytical Mechanics Associates, Inc., (AMA) is seeking an aircraft systems engineer with expertise in the design and integration of optical windows on NASA aircraft platforms for testing and calibrating scientific sensors. The role will support the Systems Engineering Branch at NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA, and the Scientifically Calibrated In-Flight Imagery (SCIFLI) Project. The project objective is to collect airborne imagery of space vehicle launches and reentries. The role involves creating systems engineering and mission artifacts such as integrated mission schedule, interface control documentation, and systems engineering management plans (SEMP), PLUS other items described below.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as the aircraft optical windows integration lead, mission systems engineer, and provide mission operations support for NASA's Scientifically Calibrated In-Flight Imagery (SCIFLI) team, which plans and executes airborne imagery observations for space vehicle launches and reentries.

• Share engineering responsibilities with the SCIFLI Principal Investigator for meeting stated imaging objectives. Assist in developing mission-specific architectures and associated requirements while providing end-to-end systems engineering for the entire life cycle.

• Develop and implement large-aperture, single-pane optical windows for NASA Gulfstream and possibly other NASA airborne platforms to enhance science data quality, while also meeting strict imaging and material strength engineering requirements.

• Direct aircraft integration activities, hardware/payload airworthiness reviews, and safety training to support mission readiness.

• Manage and coordinate the execution of flight tests, mission design reviews, and pre/post-flight briefs, ensure smooth communication and adherence to regulatory requirements by all team members.

• Lead efforts to identify non-NASA alternate flight platforms for SCIFLI needs, for mission continuity during periods when the Gulfstream platform might be unavailable.

• Be familiar with the design and application of mid-wave infrared (MWIR) sapphire substrates for providing optical windows for hypersonic wind tunnel imaging, including CAD modeling, safety analyses, cost evaluations, vendor coordination, ensuring functionality, safety compliance, and successful fabrication.

• Follow NASA systems engineering protocols for developing engineering requirements, for identifying, implementing, and meeting design quality and safety standards, and for organizing and tracking progress and adherence to all applicable aspects of assigned engineering efforts.

• Utilize systems engineering software tools as directed or deemed applicable to problems at hand.

• Report progress and results as directed.

Required Experience:

• B.S. and M.S. Degrees in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

• 2 years' relevant experience in aircraft systems design engineering.

• NASA-qualified in the design, inspection, and handling of optical windows.

• CAD & design experience that includes competency in using CREO, Solid Works, AutoCAD.

• Experience in Python code development. Experience utilizing version control systems (Git).

• Positive, curious, enthusiastic, and organized, able to work independently and in small teams.

• Familiar with C Programming language.

• Competent in the use of Microsoft Office products, especially Microsoft Teams.

Must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident.

Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.

AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com/careers and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

AMA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.