Job Description
Job Title:  F-22 Flight Test Engineering and Ops Mgr
Posting Start Date:  9/16/26

Standard Job Description

Manages the design, development, and testing of a variety of power plants, aircraft, missiles, and parts. Directs establishment of structural specifications, performance of stress analysis, and performance testing. Responsible for coordinating subordinate employee recruitment, selection and training, performance assessment, work assignments, salary, and recognition/disciplinary actions.

Responsible for the management of resources required to safely and effectively plan and execute F-22 flight and ground test missions. These resources include developmental & operational test aircraft, Flight Test Engineers (FTEs), Discipline Engineers (DEs), and mission planners. Performs Full Spectrum Leadership duties and EVMS CAM Support as required and ensures FTE Test Directors and Test Conductors are qualified and maintain performance and currency levels established by the Squadron/Combined Test Force (CTF). Ensures testing is accomplished within Program Schedule constraints as well as F-22 program and local operating procedures. Ensures test aircraft are correctly modified and instrumented in advance of test execution of approved Test Execution Packages. Participates in technical and test planning meetings to include flight test readiness review boards, Test Execution Package reviews, flight clearance reviews and Aircraft Operating Limits reviews. Performs regular Integrated Product Team (IPT) and inter-site coordination. Ensures accurate and timely reporting of F-22 flight test program status and results. Responsible for coordinating subordinate employee recruitment, selection and training, performance assessment, employee recognition, disciplinary actions, work assignments and salary.

DE direct reports will include but may not be limited to: Utilities & Subsystems (Fuel, Hydraulics, EPS, LGS, LSS, PTMS), Flight Control Systems (FLCS), Propulsion Integration, Flight Sciences, Other Mission Systems, Sensors & EW Weapons, Systems Integration, Flying Qualities, Loads, CNI, OMS.

The successful candidate will direct their teams through the operational support of the developmental test fleet of F-22 aircraft at Edwards AFB, or other sites as required, on the flight line and in the mission control room. This position requires frequent communication across the enterprise to conduct RCCA of vehicle systems issues, support and coordinate test fleet modifications, Weight and Balance activities, ground test events, and Electromagnetic Compatibility testing.

Fully staffed, the candidate will manage the workflow of and provide leadership to an array of test discipline engineers and test ops engineers, leading a multi-functional team of approximately 14 to 19 engineers.

A level 5 employee Typically has 14 - 20 years of professional experience.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or other STEM field, or relevant experience supporting military aviation in an operational or flight test environment may also be considered

Experience with Flight Test, aircraft maintenance, and air vehicle engineering practices

Demonstrated team leadership experience in a technical field

Active Secret security clearance or better and the ability to acquire and maintain SAP access

Demonstrated ability to lead multi-functional teams in an operational aviation environment

Demonstrated knowledge and application of airworthiness concepts

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Desired Skills

Current or previous control room qualification for fighter aircraft

Demonstrated team leadership experience in a technical or operational field

Strategic planning experience

Airmanship

AFTC or AFFTC (Air Force Flight Test Center) flight Test control room experience in operations or engineering

The ability to obtain and hold a Top Secret security clearance with access to special programs

F-22 or fighter Development Flight Test experience

Current F-22 program access

Prior Lead Engineer experience of an engineering team, or demonstrated team leadership experience in a technical field or operational field.

Knowledge of F-22 or fighter aircraft flight line operations

Mission Control Room (MCR) certification/qualifications and experience for fighter aircraft

Previous experience coordinating the engineering support of operational and/or test aircraft

MS in STEM field.

Pay Information

Full-Time Salary Range: $145100.00 - $269500.00

At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow—both professionally and personally.

The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.  

Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.

  • Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
  • For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.