Computer Scientist

The Air Force Test Center is seeking a full-time Computer Scientist (NH-1550-03) to join the 412th Test Wing, 412th Electronic Warfare Group, 445th Test Squadron (EWJI) at Edwards Air Force Base, California.This position supports the Digital Test and Training Range (DTTR) and Joint Simulation Environment (JSE) missions. The 445th Test Squadron develops, engineers, integrates, and operates advanced modeling and simulation capabilities that enable realistic, high-fidelity testing and training for current and future Air Force weapon systems.As a Computer Scientist, you will contribute to the design, development, integration, verification, and sustainment of distributed simulation environments. You will collaborate with software developers, network engineers, system administrators, test engineers, and operational subject matter experts to deliver integrated simulation capabilities that support developmental and operational test missions.Primary responsibilities include:Design, develop, integrate, and sustain software applications and services using C++, Python, and related technologies.Develop and enhance modeling and simulation capabilities within the Joint Simulation Environment (JSE) and Digital Test and Training Range (DTTR) architectures.Integrate simulation components, weapon system models, and distributed test infrastructure to support high-fidelity test and training events.Develop and implement automated testing, verification, validation, and accreditation (VV&A) processes to ensure system performance, reliability, and interoperability.Support DevSecOps initiatives, including CI/CD pipeline development, software configuration management, and automated deployment frameworks.Research, evaluate, and prototype emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML), Extended Reality (XR/AR), autonomy, and digital engineering to enhance future simulation capabilities.Collaborate with government, industry, academia, and contractor partners across multiple disciplines to deliver innovative technical solutions and achieve mission objectives.This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge modeling and simulation technologies that directly support the development, testing, and evaluation of next-generation Air Force and joint warfighting capabilities.APPLY NOW! THIS JOB CAN CLOSE AT ANY TIME!Location: Edwards, CA (Edwards Air Force Base)Typical 2026 salary range: $104,349 - $161,313 per year (includes locality)Telework Information: Eligible for situational telework only, including Emergency and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) prescribed "Unscheduled Telework"Travel Requirements: Up to 25% travel possibleIncentives:• MAY be eligible for a recruitment/relocation incentive. Specifics will be discussed with the Selecting Official.• MAY be eligible for paid relocation (Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs MAY be paid). Specifics will be discussed with the Selecting Official.Direct Hire Authority: NO 6-MONTH WAIT! Recently retired and/or retiring from MILITARY service ARE eligible for immediate appointment for AFTC positions. The 180-day waiting period has been waived for AFTC to hire recently retired and/or retiring service members.Desired Skills:- 2 years of experience in C++ programming desired.- 2 years of experience in DevOps process desired.- 2 years of experience in computer modeling and simulations desired.Major Duties:- Conduct software development to enhance interoperability among networked simulation models and systems.- Formulates simulation development plans that outline computer equipment needs for integrating digital and analog hardware, cockpit interface hardware, and the software design approach.- Prepares technical documentation of simulator development and operation which describe, in detail, mechanization techniques, new or unique software algorithms, operations procedures, configuration control; presents test results; draws conclusions and makes recommendations.- Performs technical and engineering work using classified information in various media and formats.- Develops, prioritizes and reports on organization performance goals and objectives.Qualifications/Requirements:- U.S. Citizenship- Obtain & maintain a Top Security clearance- This is a designated Drug Testing Position- Education requirements (Check OPM Qualifications Standard and Individual Occupational Requirements (IOR))- DAWIA Certification- Proficient in C++ and Python for software development and customization.- Practical experience with the Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) operating system- Subject to TDY approximately 30 days per year- Must be able to program (various languages and protocols), integrate/manipulate models and generate computer networks for virtual, live, and constructive simulation of combat aircraft avionics, armament, or electronic warfare systems.- Must have knowledge of concepts, principles, and techniques across multiple interrelated and integrated technical and test engineering disciplines- Must have knowledge of flight and laboratory air vehicle/missile test conduct, coordination and supervision, data analysis/evaluation and applicable flight test truth sources, modeling and simulation, technical report preparation, and administrative aspects of flight test programsAir Force Civilian Service Employment Benefits:Paid Time Off:- 11 Federal Holidays off per year- Vacation time (Annual Leave) accumulates based on length of employment. Starts at 13 days (104 hours) per year and up to 26 days (208 hours) per year- 13 sick days per year (104 hours)Retirement:- Pension: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)- 401K: Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) available with up to 5% agency matchingHealth & Wellness:- Various Medical, Dental & Vision packages to choose from for entire family- Flexible Spending Account- Federal Long Term Care Insurance, and Life & Disability InsuranceWork/Life Balance:- Family and Medical Leave Act- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)- Flexible Work Arrangements (dependent on position)Career Development:- Tuition Assistance & Professional Development opportunities- Career enhancement and promotion opportunitiesTo learn more about our benefits, please check out the AFTC Benefits Trifold at https://simplebooklet.com/230809aftcbenefitstrifold_v5_.