Steam Catapult/Arresting Gear Test Site Operator

Title:

Steam Catapult/Arresting Gear Test Site Operator

KBR is seeking a Steam Catapult/Arresting Gear Test Site Operator to support aircraft research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) activities at the TC-7 Catapult Test Site located at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland. This position plays a critical role in the operation, testing, certification, and sustainment of steam catapult and arresting gear systems used to evaluate current and emerging naval aviation capabilities. The selected candidate will serve as a qualified operator on catapult and arresting gear watch stations, supporting aircraft launch and recovery test events while working closely with engineers, test conductors, and military personnel. Responsibilities include conducting equipment readiness checks, supporting maintenance and troubleshooting activities, and ensuring the safe execution of complex test operations. This role requires a strong operational background in carrier aviation launch and recovery systems, a commitment to safety, and the ability to perform effectively in a dynamic flight test environment.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Operate steam catapult and arresting gear systems in support of aircraft research, development, test, and evaluation activities conducted at the TC-7 Catapult Test Site.

• Perform qualified catapult and arresting gear watch station duties during system certifications, developmental testing, and aircraft launch and recovery events.

• Conduct pre-operational inspections, equipment checks, and system configuration verification to ensure operational readiness and safe execution of test events.

• Monitor mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical system performance during operations and coordinate corrective actions with engineering and test personnel as required.

• Assist with troubleshooting, maintenance, repair, and restoration of catapult, arresting gear, and associated support equipment.

• Support preventive maintenance actions, equipment overhauls, operational testing, and configuration modifications associated with launch and recovery systems.

• Train and mentor military personnel, test operators, and watch standers on catapult and arresting gear operational procedures and qualification requirements.

• Maintain operational logs, equipment status records, test documentation, and maintenance records in accordance with site procedures and program requirements.

• Support periodic shift work, overtime, and schedule adjustments necessary to meet aircraft test program requirements.

• Interface with government engineers, test directors, maintainers, and aircrew representatives to support mission planning and test execution.

• Other duties as assigned in support of mission and business requirements.

Basic Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Minimum four (4) years of experience operating, maintaining, or troubleshooting aircraft carrier catapult and arresting gear systems.

• Prior U.S. Navy Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Equipment (ABE) qualification and experience performing catapult and arresting gear operational watch station duties.

• Experience supporting aircraft launch and recovery operations aboard aircraft carriers or shore-based test facilities.

• Experience interpreting technical manuals, operating procedures, equipment drawings, and maintenance documentation.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree

• Eight (8) or more years of experience operating and maintaining aircraft carrier catapult and arresting gear systems.

• Two (2) years or more of RDT&E experience supporting aircraft test programs.

• Experience serving as a watch station qualification trainer, instructor, leading petty officer, or maintenance supervisor.

• Experience supporting shore-based catapult or arresting gear facilities, including developmental or certification testing.

• Knowledge of steam plant operations, industrial utility systems, boilers, accumulators, or high-pressure steam systems.

• Experience troubleshooting hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, and mechanical systems associated with aircraft launch and recovery equipment.

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 hours/week.

Compensation: $98,000-$147,000. The salary range posted is based on the national average. The offered rate will be based on the selected candidate’s location, knowledge, skills, abilities, and/or experience, contract affordability, and in consideration of internal parity.

Additional Compensation: KBR may offer bonuses, commissions, or other forms of compensation to certain job titles or levels per internal policy or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, short-term incentives, long-term incentives, or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

KBR Benefits​: KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule.  We support career advancement through professional training and development.

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.