Defense Contractor Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:

Works field Engineering projects and provides solutions to engineering problems. Supports flight operations, maintenance and logistical support for unmanned aerial target systems and related equipment. Fosters ethical conduct, practices, and personal integrity throughout KUAS to ensure KUAS's ability to attract and retain customers in a highly competitive environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Field Support Engineer I

The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels of Field Support Engineers. Each level has additional duties and responsibilities listed.

• Manages effort and time within the budget and schedule provided for the task.
• Understands customer requirements and reviews requirements documents.
• Works to ensure customer satisfaction in relation to projects.
• Supports system testing, trouble shooting, and problem resolution.
• Supports flight testing, data reduction, analysis, and reporting.
• Prepares test plans and reports.
• Utilizes the TAS (Tool Accountability System) for proper tool control and hazardous material utilization.
• Follows safety precautions.
• Ensures that the work area and equipment are kept clean.
• Complies with established QMS procedures.
• Supports Target operations in multiple capacities.
• May be required to conduct unmanned target operations as a remote-control operator (RCO) upon successful completion of all required internal and external training and certifications.
• Regular outside contact - Customers and logistical support commands as needed. Travel required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Field Support Engineer II

• Performs breakout, buildup, testing procedures including hush-house operations during engine run, and decontamination procedures.
• Performs troubleshooting activities and aircraft depot rework/repair.
• Acts as Test Director when necessary.
• Assists with the coordination of flight operations at field sites (e.g., Tyndall, UTTR, Pt. Mugu) with customer to obtain proper infrastructure and personnel support.
• Mentors Level I Field Support Engineers.
• Supports business development efforts both in preparation of quotes and proposals as well as sales efforts.
• Supports land and boat recovery efforts when required.
• Evaluates test plans and reports.
• Supports the development of operating procedures and policies.
• Assists in collection of data for failure analysis activities as required.
• Assists in transfer/shipment of customer/government property.
• Supports Programs and Business Development by maintaining flight data collected during flight operations.
• Supports engineering efforts with review of processes, wire drawings, schematics, and fishbone analysis for trouble shooting.
• Participates in post mission/operations debriefs as required.
• Trains system operators on the proper/safe operation of aircraft.
• May be required to conduct unmanned tactical operations as a remote-control operator (RCO) upon successful completion of all required internal and external training and certifications.

Field Support Engineer III

• Plans assigned projects and executes to the plan with attention to detail.
• Manages the engineering team's effort and time within the budget and schedule provided for assigned tasks.
• Mentors Level I-II Field Support Engineers.
• Reviews and ensures adequate facilities are available and maintained at applicable target operations sites (e.g., Tyndall, UTTR, Pt Mugu), including target preparation, power distribution, engine run hush house, and launch facilities.
• Provides real-time support to RCO, DCO, and the Mission Commander during flight operations.
• Monitors and reports on customer satisfaction and meeting customer requirements.
• Attends Operational Readiness Review, MIPR, TIMS, FRR, PMR, and Staff meetings as required.
• Provides customer interface and support at field site and customer location, as required, to coordinate processing of program documentation (e.g., Engineering Change Proposals, Proposals, CDRL documents, etc.).
• Consults and advises Programs and Business Development departments on new government/customer opportunities.
• Interacts with intra-organizational managers concerning matters of significance to KUAS.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

None.

#LI-Onsite

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

• Tracks time spent on jobs and enters it electronically, as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Required:

Each successive level of Field Support Engineer builds on the identified typical qualifications listed for the previous level(s) of Systems Engineer.

Field Support Engineer I

• BS degree in a related technical field (Engineering or equivalent) preferred.
• Demonstrated passion for customer satisfaction.
• Demonstrated strong communication skills.
• Ability to travel as necessary to perform job duties.
• Communicates in English, both written and verbal.
• Familiar with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Demonstrated passion for customer satisfaction.
• Demonstrated strong professional communication skills.
• Demonstrates a “hands-on” proactive approach.
• Possess or able to obtain US Government security clearance.
• Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally to meet program requirements.

Field Support Engineer II

• At least 3 years of diversified flight operations and maintenance experience on unmanned aerial systems, including targets.
• Familiar with graphite composite fabrication and repair techniques.
• Proficient with the workings of the drone and all support systems.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel.

Field Support Engineer III

• At least 8 years of diversified flight operations and maintenance experience on unmanned aerial target systems.
• Extensive experience with graphite composite fabrication and repair techniques.
• Proficient with Microsoft PowerPoint.
• Be proficient with the ATTS and/or MPTTS.
• Understand the working structure of the launch system, launcher and support system for launch operations including the LCC and launch infrastructure.
• Understand the scoring system and components utilized.

Preferred:

Each successive level of Field Support Engineer builds on the identified typical qualifications listed for the previous level(s) of Systems Engineer.

Field Support Engineer II

• Experience in military aviation or aerospace industry.
• Experience with Government Database reporting systems.
• Experience with Government logistical support command/systems.
• Experience with field operations or maintenance of subscale aerial target systems or Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).

Field Support Engineer III

• Lead engineer experience in the aerospace industry.
• FAA Aircraft & Power Plant License or equivalent positions/responsibilities with time-in-service in US Military.
• Current or previous qualification as a flight controller, RCO, or DCO for UAS or subscale aerial target systems.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Office, manufacturing or field environment.
• Must perform and/or assist all activities normally found in aerial target maintenance, including the use of hand and power tools, lifting heavy objects, and working with industrial chemicals and adhesives such as epoxy, grease, jet fuel, oils, and cleaners.
• May be required to work extended hours of time, and/or weekends as needed.
• Employee may generate, handle, manage, or work around hazardous materials and hazardous wastes.
• May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• 10-50% - Frequent travel between KUAS locations, domestically and internationally.