Test and Evaluation Engineer; NH-40th Flight Test Squadron

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Recruiting.mil .

NO 6-MONTH WAIT! Recently retired and/or retiring from MILITARY service ARE eligible for immediate appointment for AFTC positions. The 180-day waiting period has been waived for AFTC to hire recently retired and/or retiring service members.

The Air Force Test Center is looking for a Full-Time Test and Evaluation Engineer (NH-0801-03) to work at the 96th Test Wing, 96th Operations Group, 40th Flight Test Squadron, Eglin Air Force Base.

Performs professional test and evaluation engineering work in support of 96 OG mission requirements by planning, executing, analyzing, and reporting ground and/or airborne test activities; developing test documentation and engineering solutions; and applying technical expertise, data analysis, and current engineering practices to support effective evaluation of systems, mission objectives, and organizational priorities.

Typical 2026 salary range: $89,508- $138,370 per year/per hour (includes locality)

“If your current basic salary is within the band, but above the stated VOP, your basic salary will not be reduced if you are selected for the position.”

Telework Information:
Eligible for situational telework only, including Emergency and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) prescribed "Unscheduled Telework"

Travel Requirements:
Up to 25% travel possible

Incentives:
This position MAY be eligible for a recruitment/relocation incentive. Specifics will be discussed with the Selecting Official.

Direct Hire Authority: NO 6-MONTH WAIT! Recently retired and/or retiring from MILITARY service ARE eligible for immediate appointment for AFTC positions. The 180-day waiting period has been waived for AFTC to hire recently retired and/or retiring service members.

Desired

Skills:

• Autonomy & Algorithm V&V:
  Working knowledge of Verification & Validation (V&V) and safety assurance frameworks for autonomous systems, machine learning models, and adaptive flight control architectures.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML) Fundamentals:
  Foundational understanding of machine learning concepts (e.g., neural networks, reinforcement learning, sensor fusion) and how to evaluate algorithmic decision boundaries and failure modes.
• Autonomous Aircraft Test & Evaluation (T&E):
  Familiarity with test and evaluation principles, safety-of-flight considerations, and range safety protocols unique to crewed/uncrewed and fully autonomous aircraft platforms.

Major Duties:

• 1. Plans, executes, and reports on ground and/or airborne test programs, including air-to-air and air-to-ground testing.
• 2. Develops test documentation such as test cards, Methods of Test (MOT), and test reports.
• 3. Collects and analyzes technical information, data, and standards needed to perform test engineering tasks.
• 4. Research engineering problems, identifies root causes, and develops solutions using appropriate engineering methods and techniques.
• 5. Supports special projects by preparing written summaries and reports, participating on teams, and contributing to complex initiatives.
• 6. Presents findings in reports and briefings to engineers, customers, and senior officials.
• 7. Maintains technical currency by monitoring emerging technologies and using engineering analysis and project-tracking tools to support assignments.

Qualifications/Requireme…