NGTS SME (Systems Engineer)

Aviation Systems Engineering Company; Lemoore (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee-owned ESOP

401(k) with company match

Comprehensive benefits package

Tuition assistance

Veteran-friendly employer

Job summary

ASEC is seeking an NGTS Subject Matter Expert (Systems Engineer) to support a DoD training program at NAS Lemoore, CA. The role focuses on designing, sustaining, and evolving high‑fidelity F/A‑18 training environments, collaborating with Fleet and engineering teams to ensure NGTS performance in critical missions.

Requirements include a STEM bachelor's degree, 8+ years in test and evaluation, and a DoD Top Secret clearance. The position offers remote-eligible?

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in STEM disciplines required.
• Minimum of 8 years of test and evaluation experience.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Navy Link-16 operations and JREAP integration.
• Experience with SoS architectures and LVC simulations.

Responsibilities

• Design, sustain, and evolve high-fidelity NGTS training environments.
• Provide NGTS operational support and training to Fleet and FRS teams.
• Diagnose NGTS software, networking, and integration issues.
• Update NGTS data, settings, and operator training for NGTS applications.
• Draft and manage Discrepancy Reports and coordinate resolutions.

Skills

NGTS

LVC simulations

Datalink

JREAP integration

Naval Link-16

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM

Tools

NGTS

MS Visual Studio

GUI Editor

ART Data Explorer

Job description

Location: NAS Lemoore, CA

Security Clearance Requirement: Active Top Secret

Telework Eligible? No

What You'll Do:

As an NGTS Subject Matter Expert (Systems Engineer), you'll be at the center of a mission-critical DoD training program, directly supporting aircrew readiness and combat effectiveness. In this role, you'll apply your technical expertise and operational insight to design, sustain, and evolve high-fidelity F/A-18 training environments, working closely with Fleet, FRS, and engineering teams to ensure NGTS performs at its best-every time it matters.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide NGTS operational support to design, refine, and execute dynamic, high-fidelity training scenarios that challenge and enhance aircrew performance while operating F18 AST/TOFT training systems.
• Diagnose and resolve technical issues related to NGTS, including software, networking, and integration challenges.
• Perform NGTS data management services, including updating and management of Graphic User Interface (GUI) user settings and implementing procedures to ensure optimal performance and reliability of NGTS software.
• Update NGTS Data and Settings/Provide NGTS operator training on the following NGTS applications: Parametric Data Editor, Behavior Editor, Player Editor, Live Virtual Constructive Recorder, Datalink Viewer, Battle Monitor and NGTS Simulation Core
• Analyze Analysis and Reporting Tool (ART) queries. Provide ART reports as required, including Timeline Embedded Data, Shot Card, Entity Load Plots, Havoc Card, Havoc Weapon Card, Engagement Timeline, Emitter Data Table, etc.
• Provide ART support and training on the ART Data Explorer.
• Troubleshoot NGTS discrepancies, including analysis of MS Visual Studio call stacks.
• Analyze NGTS Datalink Viewer data.
• Provide in-person NGTS support to Fleet and FRS training events (as required).
• Support integration and test events for NGTS and OFP software updates.
• Provide NGTS support to other F18 AST/TOFT locations as required at NAS Lemoore, MCAS Beaufort, MCAS Miramar, MCAS Yuma, NAS Fallon, and Boeing St. Louis.
• Identify NGTS requirements for future F18 AST/TOFT integration and identify NGTS discrepancies in current installations. Draft and submit Discrepancy Reports (DRs) to NGTS software development applications. Track and manage progress of DR resolution by attending NGTS SME/Engineering weekly meetings. Test and evaluate NGTS DR corrections and feature development and implementation.
• Coordinate software deliveries to F18 AST/TOFT locations. Provide support and assistance during NGTS software installation. Test and evaluate NGTS interoperability with F18 AST/TOFT training devices.
• Attend weekly F18 AST/TOFT program meetings.
• Assist with the synchronization of NGTS feature development and implementation with F18 AST/TOFT trainer system software updates.

This description outlines the general nature and scope of the role. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

Requirements

What You'll Bring:

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in test and evaluation.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Navy Link-16 operations, including J-Message construction, MIL-STD-6016 interpretation, Joint Network Library (JNL) files, and datalink usage across C2 and non-C2 platforms.
• Ability to integrate datalink processes into NGTS Live/Virtual/Constructive (LVC) simulations.
• Experience with System-of-Systems (SoS) architectures, including datalink and LVC systems.
• Familiarity with the NGTS application.
• Well-versed with Joint Range Extension Application Protocol (JREAP) integration with Link 16.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Technical background in weapon systems, radar functionality, and aircraft performance.
• Experience supporting Air Force and/or Navy simulation-based training.
• Prior tactical aviation experience (pilot or NFO).

Equally Important:

• Ability to build positive, collaborative relationships across teams and with external partners.
• Effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills.
• Proactive, self-directed work style with the ability to operate independently.
• Analytical thinker with proven problem-solving capabilities.
• Highly organized, with the ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

ASEC is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws.

Security Clearance Requirement:

• This position requires U.S. citizenship and an active DoD Top Secret clearance. Selected candidate will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Salary Range:

• The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $140,000 -$160,000, commensurate with an individual's experience, qualifications, and skill set. ASEC is committed to providing fair and equitable compensation.

Who We Are:

ASEC offers meaningful, mission-driven work within a culture that supports your professional and personal growth. We partner with our government customers to deliver innovative solutions across engineering, information technology, training, and logistics. Above all, we are committed to doing what's right for the Warfighter-plain and simple. Explore what makes ASEC different by visiting our website.

Why work at ASEC?

• 100% employee-owned company. Learn more about our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) here!
• Comprehensive benefits package, including 11 paid holidays, medical/dental/vision coverage, HSA/FSA options, disability insurance, and more!
• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition assistance for undergraduate and graduate education
• Veteran-friendly employer
• Thriving employee culture

ASEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, hire, train, compensate, and promote employees based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, genetic information, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), or any other status protected by law.

ASEC also complies with all applicable pay transparency laws and will not discriminate against employees or applicants for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing compensation.