Sr. Systems Project Engineer

Overview

Join the Sr. Systems Project Engineer role at University of Dayton Research Institute
. We are seeking an experienced project engineer to provide technical leadership and direct technical contribution for multiple projects related to aircraft, ground support equipment, and vehicle sustaining engineering.

• Lead systems engineering, research, evaluation, reverse engineering, design, and test/validation of hardware for aircraft, support equipment, and vehicles.
• Interface with USAF hardware owners and teams to identify and document equipment end items and components in support of lifecycle management activities and service life extension programs.
• Develop work breakdown structures for complex problems based on customer pain points with little supporting documentation.
• Design and optimize mechanical components and systems in accordance with current GD&T standards.
• Create and execute component and system level validation and qualification test plans, and analyze test data and results.
• Work with USAF hardware engineers to ensure documentation and product conformance with engineering design intent and performance requirements.
• Lead small project-focused engineering teams.

• Self‑driven, excellent communicator, strong background leading technical projects to successful completion.
• Systems engineering experience and ability to work with minimal supervision.

• BS in Engineering (Aerospace, Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Materials, or related technical field)
• 10+ years of related engineering experience
• Self‑motivated & organized with ability to work with minimal supervision
• Attention to detail and collaboration within a multi‑disciplinary team
• Effective written and verbal communication
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite (Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel)
• Problem solving and time management skills
• Understanding of aircraft and/or complex systems design and operation
• Ability to create, read, and interpret models, technical drawings, schematics, and computer generated reports
• Proficient in 3D CAD modeling software
• Knowledge of when to apply engineering analyses (FEA, CFD)
• Experience researching emerging technologies applicable to AFRL’s mission
• Working knowledge of data required to support cost–benefit analysis for technology assessments
  
  Project or program management experience
• U.S. citizen and security clearance obtainable

• 5+ years engineering/technical project management experience
• 5+ years systems engineering experience
• 5+ years engineering/technical experience in aircraft, vehicles, or support equipment
• 5+ years engineering/technical product design experience
• 4+ years creating and executing component and system level validation and qualification test plans
• 4+ years training/mentoring/managing entry‑level engineers or technical student hires
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes (casting, NC machining, forging, heat‑treat, additive manufacturing)
• Systems Engineering Certification
• MBSE / SysML experience
• Experience with data analysis (CBAs)
• Master’s degree in relevant engineering field
• Exposure to airworthiness certification, compliance, and safety assurance
• Experience with FAA, EASA, and international aviation authorities
• Demonstrated ability in technology transition, innovation management, and strategic road mapping within the U.S. Air Force
• Understanding of DoD acquisition processes, TRL/MRL assessments, and AF science & technology initiatives
• Active U.S. Security Clearance

To apply, submit a cover letter addressing each minimum qualification and any applicable preferred qualifications that you meet.

Informed by its Catholic and Marianist mission, the University is committed to the dignity of every human being. Informed by this commitment, we seek to increase diversity in all of its forms, achieve fair outcomes, and model inclusion across our campus community. The University is committed to policies of affirmative action designed to increase the employment opportunities of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in compliance with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1973.