Human Factors Specialist

Overview 

We are seeking a highly qualified Human Factors Specialist to support research, analysis, and evaluation of human performance within the National Airspace System (NAS). This position focuses on advancing the safety, efficiency, and usability of complex aviation systems by applying rigorous human factors principles and research methods across the full lifecycle of system, procedure, and operational concept development. 

The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in human-machine interaction, applied experimental psychology, and aviation operations, with demonstrated experience designing and executing human-in-the-loop studies that inform system design and operational decision-making. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Conduct basic and applied research on human performance, workload, situational awareness, and human-machine interaction in the context of NAS operations. 

• Develop and execute research designs, including defining study objectives, hypotheses, variables, and data collection parameters. 

• Design, test, and validate data collection instruments (e.g., surveys, task analyses, observation protocols, simulation studies). 

• Collect, manage, and analyze quantitative and qualitative data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods. 

• Conduct statistical analyses and interpret results to identify trends, patterns, and implications for system performance and operator effectiveness. 

• Collaborate with engineers, system designers, and operational experts to ensure human factors integration throughout the development, testing, and implementation of new systems, technologies, and procedures. 

• Develop test plans, study protocols, and technical reports that meet peer-reviewed and industry research standards. 

• Present findings to technical and non-technical audiences, including program leadership, regulatory authorities, and external stakeholders. 

• Contribute to the development of human-centered design recommendations that support FAA safety, performance, and modernization objectives. 

Program Management Analyst

Required Qualifications 

• U.S. citizen or green card permanent resident (3+ years U.S. residency) 
• Experience with FAA and the environment.

• • Education and Experience: 
  • Master’s degree in Human Factors, Human Factors and Applied Cognition, Psychology, Engineering Psychology, or Applied Experimental Psychology with a concentration in aviation human factors; 5+ yearsof relevant human factors engineering research experience in aviation. 
  • OR Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 8+ years of applied experience in aviation-related human factors research. 
  • Demonstrated experience applying human factors research methods and statistical analyses in an applied aviation or operational environment. 
  • Experience with experimental design, simulation studies, and quantitative data analysis. 
  • Strong analytical, critical thinking, and technical writing skills. 
  • Ability to effectively communicate complex human factors findings to both technical and operational audiences. 
  • Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., R, SPSS, MATLAB, Python, or similar). 

D.C. Salary Range: $95,500 - $149,200

• Experience supporting FAA programs or research related to air traffic management, flight deck operations, or NAS modernization.
• Familiarity with human-in-the-loop simulation environments and human performance modeling.
• Experience integrating human factors principles into system engineering, safety analysis, or concept development.
• Knowledge of FAA Human Factors Design Standard (HF-STD-001) or related regulatory and research guidance.
• Publications or presentations in peer-reviewed human factors or aviation research forums.

**THIS POSITION IS CONTINGENT ON AWARD AND POSITION AVAILABILITY**

Overview

Noblis and our wholly owned subsidiaries, Noblis ESI and Noblis MSD, take on some of the nation’s toughest challenges, delivering advanced solutions to our customers’ most critical missions. We bring together leading scientific, engineering, and management expertise in a culture grounded in objectivity and collaboration, ensuring our work creates lasting impact across federal missions.

We work with a broad range of government agencies in the defense, intelligence, and federal civilian sectors. Learn more and find opportunities at careers.noblis.org

Why Work at Noblis

At Noblis, we share a passion for excellence and innovation, and we create an environment where people can do meaningful work while maintaining the balance that keeps them energized and fulfilled. We seek out individuals with a natural curiosity and desire to collaborate and learn. We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we consistently seek exceptionally skilled, mission‑driven professionals who care deeply about doing work that enriches lives and makes our nation safer.

Noblis has earned numerous workplace awards for our culture, our commitment to employee well‑being, and our dedication to meaningful, impactful work. We also maintain a drug‑free workplace.

Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on Noblis and/or government requirements.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, age, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, pregnancy/childbirth and related medical conditions, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact us.

EEO is the Law  |  E-Verify  |  Right to Work

At Noblis we recognize and reward your contributions, provide you with growth opportunities, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, and work-life programs. Our award programs acknowledge employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our service standards. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in our benefit programs. Other offerings may be provided for employees not within this category. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Benefits page on our Careers site.

Compensation at Noblis is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the combination of education, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements and applicable employment laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. For part time or on-call staff, compensation is proportionately adjusted based on hours worked. While monetary compensation is important, it's just one component of Noblis’ total compensation package.