Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Engineer SME

KBR Careers; Patterson Township (OH); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

KBR is seeking an Electro- Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Engineer SME to support the AFLCMC F&A Directorate on the F-22 program. On-site at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, with ~30% travel and active Top Secret clearance required.

The role emphasizes systems engineering integration, MBSE, and transition of technologies from labs to fielded capabilities. The candidate should bring 20+ years in DoD DoW/DoD-like environments, deep EO/IR knowledge, and experience guiding acquisitions through milestones and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science with extensive experience in systems engineering.
• Advanced knowledge of EO/IR systems and standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead Systems Engineering Integration for ACAT I programs.
• Collaborate on Requirements Verification Matrix with program office.
• Provide insight at milestone reviews and make actionable recommendations.
• Analyze engineering data to validate Raptor Release requirements.
• Resolve design defects with stakeholders to meet standards.
• Advance technology transition from research labs to acquisition phases.
• Review and refine documentation to align with program objectives.
• Shape acquisition efforts through Program Statements of Work and CDRLs.
• Evaluate OEM responses to RFIs to meet essential KPIs.

Skills

EO/IR systems

Top Secret clearance

MBSE

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Applied Science

Tools

MBSE tools

Job description

Title Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Engineer SME

Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Engineer SME The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) Fighter and Advanced Aircraft (F&AA) Directorate plays a pivotal role in equipping the U.S. Air Force advanced fighter aircraft capabilities. The directorate oversees the comprehensive lifecycle management of fighter platforms. This role provides opportunities to contribute to the cutting‑edge F-22 program supporting the sustainment and modernization of a critical defense asset and ensures they meet evolving operational demands. KBR is seeking an experienced Electro-optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Engineer to support the acquisition of the F-22 systems and subsystems. The successful candidate will leverage their expertise in analyzing EO/IR systems and developing systems engineering strategies to drive successful acquisitions. You'll work collaboratively with a diverse team, promoting innovation, disciplined problem‑solving, and excellence at every stage. If you're ready to thrive in a dynamic environment and make an impact,

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Systems Engineering Integration: Leverage senior-level expertise to integrate advanced capabilities into existing systems, ensuring seamless support for Acquisition Category (ACAT) I programs critical to mission success.
• Collaborate on Requirements Verification: Partner with program office personnel to develop and refine the Requirements Verification Matrix for each new version Release, ensuring compliance with operational and technical objectives.
• Provide Insight at Milestone Reviews: Attend key systems engineering milestone reviews, deliver in-depth analysis and actionable recommendations to drive informed technical decisions.
• Analyze Engineering Data for Selloff: Review comprehensive engineering designs, lab data, and flight test results to validate and approve Raptor Release requirements, ensuring robust capability fielding.
• Resolve Design Defects: Assess and recommend solutions for identified design defects, collaborating with stakeholders to coordinate resolutions that meet operational standards.
• Advance Technology Transition: Document and support the transition of emerging technologies from research labs to integration and acquisition phases, enabling rapid fielding of cutting‑edge capabilities.
• Review and Refine Documentation: Provide critical input during engineering document reviews, ensuring accuracy and alignment with program objectives.
• Shape Acquisition Efforts: Contribute engineering expertise to the development of Program Statements of Work and Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs) to ensure contract deliverables meet program needs.
• Evaluate Industry Solutions: Assess OEM responses to Requests for Information (RFI), determining their capability to meet or exceed Key Performance Parameters.
• Drive Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE): Support MBSE development to integrate innovative technologies into aircraft platform models, enhancing design efficiency and system integration.

Work Environment

• Location: On-Site, The primary place of performance for this role is Wright-Patterson AFB, OH. Due to the requirement to work in a secure facility, remote work opportunities will be minimal.
• Travel Requirements: Moderate ~30%
• Working Hours: Standard

Qualifications Required

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Applied Science with a minimum of 20 years of experience in systems engineering or a closely related field
• Clearance: Active Top Secret clearance
• Advanced knowledge and recognized ability in EO/IR systems
• Comprehensive understanding of EO/IR systems standards, procedures, and practices
• Ability to perform tasks and oversee efforts of junior and journeyman personnel

Desired Qualifications

• 10 Years of Department of Defense (DoD) / Department of War (DoW) experience
• Master’s degree in Engineering or a related discipline
• Familiarity with F-22 platform and avionics systems
• Program Management Professional (PMP) certification
• INCOSE Expert Systems Engineering Professional (ESEP) credential
• Extensive experience in DoD weapon systems engineering and acquisition processes
• Specialized expertise in U.S. Air Force fighter aircraft systems or aerospace engineering

Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR

At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture. These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company. That commitment is central to our team of team’s philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver – Together.

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

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