Become an Aerospace Engineer (Systems) at the NTSB

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) stands at the forefront of transportation safety. As an independent federal agency, it is charged with the critical responsibility of investigating every civil aviation accident in the United States. We are currently looking for a talented and experienced Aerospace Engineer (Systems) to join our team in Washington, D.C.

Job Responsibilities

As a Systems Group Chairperson, your duties will include:

Participating in "go-team" launches for national and international accidents.
Providing authoritative engineering analysis of flight controls, avionics, and fuel systems.
Coordinating on-site wreckage documentation and follow-up lab examinations.
Drafting technical reports that identify root causes for the Board's final accident findings.

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must demonstrate:

A degree in professional engineering.
Specialized experience equivalent to GS-13.
Proficiency in analyzing complex aircraft mechanical and electrical systems.
Strong technical communication skills.

Salary and Benefits Comparison

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$143,913 - $187,093
Position Type	Permanent, Full-Time
Leave	Paid vacation and sick leave
Additional	Transit subsidies & fitness benefits

Application Tips

Be Specific: Do not assume the reviewer knows your background. Clearly outline your technical contributions in your resume.
Documentation: Ensure your transcripts and SF-50s (if applicable) are uploaded before the deadline.
Assessments: Monitor your email for the USA Hire assessment link, which is a mandatory part of the process.

This is a unique opportunity to apply your engineering expertise in a mission-critical environment. Join the NTSB and make a tangible difference in aviation safety.

Why This Aerospace Engineer (Systems) - Direct Hire Job Matters

Join the elite team at the NTSB and lead critical investigations that shape the future of aviation safety globally.

Aerospace Engineer (Systems) - Direct Hire Job Overview

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is seeking a highly skilled Aerospace Engineer (Systems) to serve in the Office of Aviation Safety. This vital role involves conducting complex, objective investigations into civil aviation accidents. You will act as the Systems Group Chairperson, providing expert engineering analysis of aircraft flight controls, avionics, electrical, fuel, and pneumatic systems to determine root causes and develop life-saving safety recommendations.

Requirements for Aerospace Engineer (Systems) - Direct Hire

U.S. Citizenship.
Bachelor's degree in professional engineering from an ABET-accredited program or equivalent combination of education and experience.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the federal service.
Demonstrated ability to perform engineering evaluations of aircraft systems and components for root cause analysis.
Experience in authoring formal technical engineering reports to inform safety standards.
Ability to serve as a technical authority for external stakeholders, including manufacturers and international aviation organizations.

Preferred Qualifications for Aerospace Engineer (Systems) - Direct Hire

Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.
Advanced experience in hazard analysis and systemic aircraft failure investigation.
Strong communication skills for coordinating with multi-disciplinary investigative teams.
Proven ability to translate complex technical data into actionable safety policy.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework options.
✓Transit and fitness subsidies.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Aerospace Engineer (Systems) - Direct Hire Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Aerospace Engineer (Systems) - Direct Hire Job

Submit your resume, identifying all relevant federal experience (series, grade, hours per week).
Complete all required questionnaire responses in the portal.
Upload official or unofficial transcripts to verify educational eligibility.
Submit your application package by the closing date of November 2, 2026.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessment if notified via email.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume to specifically reflect the 'Specialized Experience' language used in the announcement.
Ensure your resume includes clear dates of employment (Month/Year) and hours per week.
Prepare to set aside approximately two hours for the USA Hire assessment.
If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessment, initiate that request as soon as you apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the Systems Group Chairperson?

The Chairperson leads the technical examination of aircraft systems during an investigation, coordinates component testing, and authors reports that identify the probable cause of an accident.

Is this a remote position?

No, this position is located in Washington, D.C. However, the role involves significant travel to accident sites, both domestically and internationally.

Job from National Transportation Safety Board

The NTSB plays a pivotal role in maintaining the safety of the skies. By determining the probable causes of aviation accidents and issuing safety recommendations, our investigators influence industry-wide standards and regulatory policies. The Office of Aviation Safety (OAS) is the backbone of these efforts, and your expertise as an engineer will directly contribute to saving lives.