Senior Systems Engineer - Human Factors SME

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Senior Systems Engineer to serve as the Human Factors Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) system. The Human Factors SME will be responsible for ensuring all aspects of human-system integration are addressed including safety, health hazards, and human engineering for the 420K strategic aerostat platform and associated ISR systems. The ideal candidate will work closely with the U.S. Army, foreign military clients, and internal engineering teams to ensure ISR systems meet human factors requirements and safety standards in military operations.

Ensure that all aspects of human-system integration are addressed including safety, health hazards, and human engineering throughout ASRR system development and deployment
• Analyze human-machine interfaces across all ASRR subsystems including aerostat operations, ISR sensor controls, ELINT systems, and ground control stations
• Evaluate operator workload, situational awareness requirements, and cognitive demands for complex multi-sensor operations
• Assess training requirements and develop human performance standards for system operation and maintenance
• Ensure all human-machine interfaces meet MIL-STD-1472 standards and other applicable human factors requirements
• Review and evaluate interface designs for usability, accessibility, and operational effectiveness
• Conduct human factors analysis of control systems, displays, and operator interfaces
• Coordinate with software and hardware engineers to implement human factors requirements in system design

• Review and approve safety procedures for ASRR sites including operational, maintenance, and emergency procedures
• Conduct safety analysis and hazard identification for human interactions with aerostat systems and ISR equipment
• Evaluate safety risks associated with aerostat ground operations, deployment, and recovery procedures
• Develop safety protocols for personnel working with high-altitude platforms and associated ground support equipment

• Analyze human performance requirements and limitations for ASRR operations across different operational environments
• Evaluate ergonomic factors and physical demands for system operators and maintenance personnel
• Assess environmental factors including workspace design, lighting, noise, and climate control requirements
• Conduct task analysis to optimize human performance and reduce operator error potential
• Develop and maintain human factors-related contract data requirements deliverables
• Create comprehensive human factors engineering documentation including analysis reports, design guidelines, and compliance verification
• Generate safety procedure documentation and maintain approval records for all ASRR operational sites
• Ensure compliance with military standards and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) human factors requirements

• Contribute to creation of human factors requirements in system specifications, architecture, and design documentation
• Support system-level testing and verification efforts with emphasis on human factors validation and usability testing
• Participate in design reviews to ensure human factors considerations are properly integrated into system design
• Coordinate human factors testing including operator performance evaluation and interface usability assessment

• Develop human factors guidance for training programs and operational procedures
• Assist in creation of training materials that address human performance optimization and safety requirements
• Support development of operator manuals and procedures that incorporate human factors best practices
• Provide technical expertise during system deployment and fielding activities

• Conduct human error analysis and develop mitigation strategies for identified risks
• Participate in risk assessments with focus on human factors and safety considerations
• Analyze incident reports and operational feedback to identify human factors improvement opportunities
• Develop corrective actions for human factors-related issues and performance problems

• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams including software, hardware, and integration specialists to ensure human factors requirements are met
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to human-system interfaces and operational procedures
• Support integration of human factors requirements across multiple ASRR subsystems and partner organizations
• Coordinate with foreign military clients to address cultural and operational differences in human factors requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Factors Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Psychology, Systems Engineering, or related STEM field

• Minimum 10 years of experience in applied human factors engineering with focus on complex military or aerospace systems
• Demonstrated experience with human-machine interface design and MIL-STD-1472 compliance
• Experience with ISR technologies such as EO/IR, radar, SIGINT, or similar sensor systems
• Proven track record in safety analysis and procedure development for operational systems

• Hands-on experience with human factors analysis methods including task analysis, workload assessment, and usability testing
• Expertise in human-machine interface design principles and ergonomic analysis
• Understanding of safety analysis techniques and hazard identification methodologies
• Knowledge of human performance capabilities and limitations in operational environments

• Deep knowledge of MIL-STD-1472 and other military human factors standards
• Experience with cognitive workload analysis and situational awareness assessment
• Understanding of training effectiveness and human performance optimization
• Knowledge of environmental factors affecting human performance including workspace design and operational conditions

• Experience with safety procedure development and approval processes
• Knowledge of human error analysis and risk mitigation strategies
• Understanding of occupational safety and health requirements for complex systems
• Experience with incident analysis and corrective action development

• Applied experience in systems engineering lifecycle management tools such as Innoslate MBSE, Cameo Magic Draw, DOORS Next, or equivalent
• Experience with human factors analysis software and usability testing tools
• Familiarity with military standards related to human factors and safety
• Knowledge of contract data requirements preparation and technical documentation

• Strong verbal and written communication skills with ability to interface with military personnel, foreign clients, and cross-functional engineering teams
• Experience presenting human factors analyses and safety recommendations to diverse audiences
• Proven ability to work effectively with multiple organizations and coordinate technical activities
• Strong technical writing skills for procedures, analyses, and documentation

• Must be eligible for U.S. government security clearance (Secret minimum) or possess current clearance
• Ability to work effectively in dynamic, fast paced, and multinational environment
• Experience with aerostat or airborne platform operations and safety requirements preferred

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.