Flight Sciences Instructor

We are seeking a highly qualified and experienced Flight Sciences Instructor with a strong background in DoD Test and Evaluation (T&E) to join our team supporting the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School (USAF TPS) at Edwards AFB, CA. This role is essential for the development and delivery of advanced instructional courses for US Air Force and Space Force personnel, including aircrew, operators, and engineers, participating in a year-long, in-residence T&E training program.

The ideal candidate will possess flight test experience and deep expertise in core flight sciences disciplines such as aerodynamics, aircraft performance, stability and control, propulsion systems, and aircraft systems integration. The instructor will be responsible for training DoD personnel in the fundamental principles and practical application of flight test techniques used to evaluate the performance and handling qualities of modern aircraft. This includes instructing on test planning, test execution, data analysis, and reporting of flight test results.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Instructional Delivery: Develop and deliver comprehensive classroom instruction and guide practical exercises in flight sciences disciplines, including aerodynamics, propulsion, stability & control, and performance testing, specifically tailored to support the Space Test curriculum and broader T&E training objectives.
• Curriculum Development: Collaborate with the USAF TPS curriculum development team to update and refine the flight sciences curriculum, ensuring its alignment with evolving test and evaluation methodologies, current aircraft technology, and relevant space system considerations.
• Student Assessment: Develop and administer effective evaluations to assess student proficiency in flight sciences concepts and test techniques. Identify areas for improvement and provide constructive feedback to facilitate student growth and development.
• Hands-on Training: Provide practical, hands-on training in laboratory, control room, and/or flight environments to reinforce classroom learning and develop practical flight test skills.
• On-Site Support: Work on-site at Edwards AFB, directly supporting the Flight Sciences division of USAF Test Pilot School and coordinating with other USAF TPS divisions as required.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Provide subject matter expertise and analysis in flight sciences to support curriculum development, student instruction, and other program needs.
• Handling Qualities Instruction: Instruct on the principles, evaluation techniques, and reporting standards for aircraft Handling Qualities, including the application of relevant rating scales.
• Flight Test Instrumentation Training: Provide training on the principles and use of common flight test instrumentation systems and data acquisition methods for flight sciences testing.
• Flight Test Data Analysis Instruction: Instruct on the analysis of flight test data using relevant software tools and techniques to evaluate aircraft performance, stability, control, and handling qualities.
• Modeling and Simulation Integration: Incorporate instruction on the use of flight dynamics modeling and simulation tools in flight test planning, prediction, and analysis.
• Risk Management Instruction: Provide instruction on identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with flight test operations, particularly in the context of flight sciences testing.
• Aerospace Vehicle Performance Instruction: Include instruction on the performance characteristics and test methodologies for aerospace vehicles, relevant to ascent/descent phases and space test objectives.
• Additional Duties: Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall educational mission of the USAF Test Pilot School and the T&E training course.
  
  

Experience

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in flight test and evaluation.
• Demonstrated experience in the development and application of flight test techniques and procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of DoD Test and Evaluation procedures on a major acquisition program.
• Proven expertise in Flight Sciences (aerodynamics, performance, stability & control, propulsion, systems integration).
• Experience delivering instruction to adult learners in an academic environment is desired.
• Test Pilot School graduate (USAF, USN, Empire, or EPNER) is highly desired.
  
  

Education

• Master’s degree in engineering or related technical field with a focus on aeronautical or aerospace disciplines is required.
• A PhD in Aeronautical Engineering or related field is desired.
  
  

Clearance

• Secret with the ability to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) access is required.
  
  

Work Schedule

• Full Time, Exempt. Must be willing to work full time, on site at Edwards Air Force Base.
  
  

Travel

• Occasional travel may be required to support course objectives or related activities.
  
  

U.S. Citizenship is required

The pay range for this position in California is $170,000/year to $240,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract ranges, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via MTSI's internal or external careers site.

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