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Instrumentation & Flight Test Data Engineer
Location: Yuma, AZ
Security Clearance: Active Secret or Top Secret clearance preferred
Rate: $59-87hr W2 depending on experience Position Overview
We are seeking an Instrumentation & Flight Test Data Engineer to support complex aerospace and defense test operations. This role is responsible for mission data acquisition, instrumentation system support, telemetry operations, and post-mission data analysis in a fast-paced flight test environment.
The ideal candidate will combine strong technical troubleshooting skills with a disciplined approach to data integrity, operational execution, and stakeholder collaboration. You will support mission planning, flightline activities, instrumentation configuration, mission monitoring, and data validation efforts that contribute directly to successful test execution and evaluation.
Key Responsibilities Support flight test and operational test events by collecting, validating, and analyzing mission data.
Coordinate Time Space Position Information (TSPI) and other mission data requirements with internal stakeholders and supporting organizations.
Configure and maintain mission monitoring, viewing, recording, and data acquisition systems.
Support telemetry collection activities and assist with real-time mission operations.
Monitor mission execution, launch, and recovery activities while documenting data anomalies and operational issues.
Verify the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of mission data following test events.
Participate in post-mission data processing, merger activities, and validation efforts.
Configure mission-specific data acquisition programming and data display applications.
Troubleshoot instrumentation hardware, software, sensor interfaces, and data flow issues impacting mission execution.
Support flightline personnel by developing, updating, and maintaining operational procedures and technical documentation.
Apply analytical and statistical methods to assess system performance, reliability, utilization, security, and operational effectiveness.
Document findings, lessons learned, and recommendations to improve repeatability and mission success.
Present technical results and status updates to engineering teams, program stakeholders, and leadership. Required Qualifications Active DoD security clearance.
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
Hands-on experience supporting instrumentation systems, telemetry operations, flight test activities, data acquisition, or test and evaluation programs.
Experience configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting technical systems in operational environments.
Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with the ability to investigate and resolve complex technical issues.
Experience reviewing and validating engineering data for accuracy and completeness.
Ability to create and maintain technical procedures, reports, and documentation.
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Willingness to support occasional travel based on program requirements. Preferred Qualifications 8+ years of relevant professional experience with a Bachelor's degree, or 6+ years with an advanced technical degree.
Experience supporting aerospace, flight test, range operations, developmental testing, or operational test and evaluation programs.
Familiarity with telemetry systems, sensor integration, instrumentation architectures, and real-time mission display tools.
Experience supporting mission recording, tracking, and data processing systems.
Background in flightline operations and test mission execution support.
Experience creating standard operating procedures, technical runbooks, reusable templates, or process improvement initiatives.
Prior experience working directly with government, aerospace, defense, or highly regulated technical organizations.
Knowledge of mission data management, test planning, verification activities, and engineering quality processes. What You'll Bring A strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
Ability to operate effectively in dynamic, mission-focused environments.
Hands-on troubleshooting mindset and willingness to engage directly with operational systems.
Strong collaboration skills across engineering, operations, and customer stakeholder groups.
Commitment to continuous improvement, process optimization, and operational excellence. This position offers the opportunity to support advanced aerospace and defense test programs while working alongside multidisciplinary engineering teams in a highly technical and mission-driven environment.