Senior program specialist - test, configuration management

We are seeking a highly accomplished Principal Systems Engineer and Subject Matter Expert (SME) to serve as an independent technical expert for Navy Aerial Targets on the BQM-177 and BQM-34 platforms. This role requires an exceptional, hands-on problem solver with vast cross-functional experience. You will operate with a high degree of autonomy to drive full-lifecycle technical solutions—from initial anomaly detection and root cause analysis through the design, manufacture, and flight-test validation of the final corrective action.

Key Responsibilities:

• End-to-End Problem Resolution: Investigate complex system failures and malfunctions on BQM-177 and BQM-34 aerial targets. Drive the complete engineering lifecycle from Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) through the implementation and field integration of the solution.
• Cross-Functional Engineering Leadership: Solve highly complex, multi-disciplinary problems spanning mechanical, aeronautical, and systems engineering domains.
• Hands-on Design & Manufacturing: Including expertise in the design, manufacturing, and repair of composite structures. Utilize SolidWorks CAD to rapidly prototype and develop mechanical solutions.
• Test & Validation Execution: Develop, author, and independently execute rigorous ground and flight test plans to validate hardware modifications and system upgrades.
• Technical Communication: Author definitive engineering reports, position papers, and technical investigations. Effectively brief complex anomalies and proposed solutions to senior program leadership and military stakeholders.
• Document all tasking contributions in accordance with technical data and government reporting standards.
• Follow all DoD cybersecurity, OPSEC, and AT/FP (Antiterrorism/Force Protection) protocols.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum of 15 to 20+ years of proven, engineering experience in the analysis, hardware development, systems engineering, and testing of aviation grade hardware and aerial target systems.
• Platform Expertise: Deep, verifiable subject matter expertise with Navy sub-scale aerial targets (specifically BQM-177 and BQM-34).
• Technical Proficiencies: Highly proficient in SolidWorks CAD software, with extensive hands-on experience in composite material structures and repair methodologies.
• Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical capabilities in mechanical and flight dynamic/aeronautical engineering.
• Work Style: Demonstrated history of working independently as a self-starter with minimal oversight to resolve mission-critical technical issues.
• An active Secret security clearance is required.
• Familiarity with Navy’s Competency Aligned Organizational (CAO) structure and the Navy’s Integrated Product Team (IPT) structure.
• Must complete DoD Cybersecurity and OPSEC Level I training.
• Must comply with all Common Access Card (CAC) and facility access background checks.

Work Environment:

Typical off-site work environment with no unusual hazards, constant sitting while using the computer terminal, constant use of sight abilities while reviewing documents, constant use of speech/hearing abilities for communication, constant mental alertness. Must possess planning/organizing skills and must be able to work under deadlines. This position is part-time. Some travel is required.

Compensation Details:

$72.00 - $91.00

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
• Educational reimbursement
• Parental leave
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Tax-saving options
• Disability and life insurance
• Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

09/23/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters.