Simulator Operator SME, F​/A-

Location: NAS Lemoore, CA

Security Clearance Requirement: Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret

Telework Eligible? No

As the Simulator Operator Subject Matter Expert (SME), you will play a critical role in supporting the Fleet Project Team (FPT) in delivering advanced training capabilities to operational Fleet units and Fleet Replacement Squadrons (FRS). This position provides direct technical and operational support to active‑duty aircrew, Program Management, Air (PMAs), and the Naval Air Warfare Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD) across a range of initiatives including simulator development, testing, evaluation, and mission execution support.

This position will work closely with on‑site COMS operators to ensure the best possible training for the warfighter.

• Provide expert level support in the areas of Mission Planning, Next Generation Threat System (NGTS), and trainer Initial Conditions (IC) sets for various Strike Fighter Aviation Readiness Program (SFARP), Fleet Readiness Squadron (FRS) and Network Enabled Weapon University (NEW U) training.
• Provide input on software and system requirements for F/A‑18 Tactical Operational Flight Trainer (TOFT) and Specialized Mission Trainer (SMT) devices.
• Serve as a subject matter expert during development and acceptance test events at locations such as Boeing (St. Louis, MO), CAE (Arlington, TX), and various Navy and Marine Corps fleet sites.
• Deliver training to active‑duty aircrew and contractor operators and instructors on simulator capabilities, limitations, and operational use on both the TOFT and Advanced System Trainers (AST).
• Assist COMS personnel in conducting initial and annual training for contracted operators, ensuring personnel are current with simulator usage, NGTS, system updates and limitations.
• Support networked Fleet Synthetic Training and Naval Aviation Distributed Training events as the site SME.
• Support Fleet sites with newly installed training systems and facilitate onboarding of new capabilities.
• Assist in developing IOS and NGTS test matrices for training system validation and verification.
• Review and validate technical documentation and test procedures from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
• Participate in NGTS User Group (NUG) forums and Program Increment (PI) planning sessions.
• Manage NGTS scenario databases and support simulator configuration and customization for specific training needs.
• Ensure alignment and integration of new training systems with evolving Fleet requirements and existing hardware/software infrastructure.
• Travel up to 15% to support test & evaluation events, system performance assessments (SPA), requirements/design reviews, and other program‑related activities.

This description outlines the general nature and scope of the role. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

What You’ll Bring: The ideal candidate will have deep operational and technical expertise in F/A‑18E/F training systems, including experience with the Next Generation Threat System (NGTS), simulator mission planning, and system integration.

• Bachelor’s or associate’s degree is a plus.
• 5+ years of relevant operational experience in naval aviation.
• Hands‑on experience with simulator operations and/or training system development.
• Experience in acquisition or program management, preferred.
• Experience with the Joint Mission Planning System (JMPS) and NATOPS Instructor qualification, preferred.

Equally Important:

• Ability to build positive, collaborative relationships across teams and with external partners.
• Effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills.
• Proactive, self‑directed work style with the ability to operate independently.
• Analytical thinker with proven problem‑solving capabilities.
  
  Highly organized, with the ability to balance competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

• This position requires U.S. citizenship and an active DoD Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance. Active Top Secret clearance is preferred. Selected candidate will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility…