The System Test & Analysis Engineer will design, execute, debug, and analyze system level avionics tests from a collection of requirements for NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS). These test cases have a software component that execute in various labs including the Systems Integration Laboratory (SIL) Hardware in the Loop (HWIL) facility to verify the integrated avionics. The Space Launch System (SLS) labs include numerous complex real-time Software Models integrated with Electrical/Avionics systems to achieve detailed simulation of the SLS rocket. The software test cases will also need to be designed, implemented, tested, and analyzed for correct working order.

This position is responsible for providing services and support for the Software Systems Engineering Branch (ES51). This branch is responsible for the requirements, test and verification, configuration and data management, software process and systems engineering, and day of launch operations support for the Space Launch System (SLS) Integrated Avionics Test Facilities (IATF).  This engineering support will be conducted within an existing operational Government owned and managed facility housed at MSFC.

This is an entry to mid-level position that requires broad and “on the ground” technical capability to perform Test Development, Test Conduction and Test Analysis of real-time HWIL systems, as well as good project management skills to define and plan the activities. The ability to track and report progress and timely completion of milestones is essential. Problem solving, debug, and hands-on use of test equipment will be required. This position will also require the development and execution of simulation-based tests and provide engineering support to augment a team of Government engineers.

Activities associated with this position include but are not limited to the following:

Become a subject matter expert on a library of system tests in the Avionics System Test Library. This will include in depth knowledge of the system tests and how they work functionally on the SLS. Participate in defining and planning verification/validation approaches to achieve Detailed Verification Objectives. Write technical documents including test plans, analysis plans, and test data analysis reports to address verification requirements. Design, execute, debug, and analyze test plans, including pre-test setups such as instrumentation, data acquisition, software loading/configuration and post-test activities such as data archiving and data analysis. Develop test case software using a language such as Python, XML, or C. Use a Linux based platform. Familiar with basic Linux commands including vi. Perform data interpretation, assessment, and analysis of HWIL simulation systems.  Evaluate test data to correlate with test findings and investigate potential anomalies using proprietary analysis tools. Present and defend Test and Analyses reports during peer level reviews. Work with associated Systems Engineering (SE) teams, Software Development teams, Test teams, and Electrical Integration teams to ensure tests and analyses meet technical intent and appropriately verify system capabilities and behaviors. Be an ambitious self-starter and product owner of a library of avionics system tests. Be willing to initiate contact with other groups to resolve problems. Work well within a team environment.

Essential Functions

Work Environment: 

General office environment (100%). Requires ability to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely communication, both verbally and in writing (100%). Requires ability to interact professionally with co-workers, management, and client (100%). Requires travel in the domestic USA (<15%).

Physical Requirements: 

Requires sitting for extended periods of time in meetings with peers, management, and with our client at NASA facilities to discuss technical issues (10%). Also, requires sitting for extended periods of time at a desk to write reports and perform engineering tasks (80%). Requires ability to use stairs or elevators for access between floors and multiple buildings at NASA and Contractor facilities (10%).

Equipment and Machines: 

Requires ability to operate a personal computer, a telephone, fax machine, copier, calculator, and other general office equipment (100%).

Attendance: 

Normal workday is from 7:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday. Minimal overtime may be required (10%) to meet schedule milestones and to support technical demands of the job. Regular attendance is a necessity and adequate arrangements for delegating duties during absences are required.

Other Essential Functions: 

The ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and to make rational decisions, and to exercise good judgment is essential (100%). Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.

Proof of U.S. Citizenship is required.