Junior Operations Engineer

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Operations Engineer at AMERICAN SYSTEMS supporting NASA aerospace research and development initiatives. Involves managing aircraft engineering and integration for various projects at Armstrong Flight Research Center.

Posted 4/21/2026full-timeEdwards • California • 🇺🇸 United StatesJunior💰 $65,700 - $109,700 per yearWebsite

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Assembly

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Define and manage system requirements, risk, and integration strategies.
Support aircraft operations, modifications, maintenance planning, and troubleshooting.
Serve as operational engineer for AFRC manned/unmanned projects, including development of autonomous aircraft technologies and flight vehicle integration procedures across NASA and partner organizations.
Maintain aircraft configuration management (manuals, directives, TCTOs, Airworthiness Directives, Maintenance Directives).
Prepare and manage Certificates of Authorization (COAs).
Lead and support flight test planning, including test card development.
Participate in and lead Operations, Mission Rule, and Systems Safety Working Groups.
Develop procedures for assembly, installation, and integration of scientific instruments into NASA aircraft.
Analyze project objectives, develop execution plans, and support safety reviews, including hazard documentation, FMEA, and mitigation planning.
Review project instructions to confirm requirements, specifications, and objectives; recommend solutions to technical issues.
Conduct and oversee system/component tests and research studies for performance improvements, development, and quality control.
Record and analyze test procedures, results, and data; provide recommendations.
Drive research and development initiatives supporting NASA aerospace advancements.
Lead Tech Briefs, risk assessments, and strategic planning for flight test programs.
Represent the Ops Engineering branch in pre-mission deployments.

Requirements

What you’ll need

U.S. citizenship required with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, if required
Bachelor's degree in STEM.
0-2 years of relevant experience
Able to work a 9/80 WORK SCHEDULE (alternating Fridays off) with core hours between 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Travel requirements: some travel is anticipated both locally and long distance by car or plane.
Ability to work onsite daily is required.

Benefits

Comp & perks

healthcare benefits
paid leave
retirement plans
insurance programs
education and training assistance

ATS Keywords

✓ Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

system requirements managementrisk managementintegration strategiesaircraft operationsautonomous aircraft technologiesflight vehicle integrationconfiguration managementhazard documentationFMEAquality control

Soft Skills

leadershipcommunicationproblem-solvinganalytical thinkingteam collaborationproject managementstrategic planningtechnical writingadaptabilityattention to detail

Certifications

Bachelor's degree in STEMsecurity clearance (if required)