TFDM Adaptation Computer Scientist- Mid/Sr Level

Job Description

Job DescriptionSalary:

A3 Technology, Inc. is seeking a Systems Engineer to support the FAAs Terminal Flight Data Manager (TFDM) program and its integration with the Flight Data Input/Output (FDIO) system. TFDM is the tower modernization initiative designed to replace legacy, paper-based and stand-alone systems with integrated, digital tools that improve flight data management, surface traffic efficiency, and collaborative decision-making. The program consolidates multiple older systems into a modern, electronic environment. FDIO serves as a critical interface within this ecosystem, enabling controllers and other stakeholders to access real-time flight plan information from ERAM and other core FAA systems. Together, TFDM and FDIO provide more accurate data sharing, improved departure sequencing, and enhanced situational awareness to reduce delays, save fuel, and improve the safety and predictability of air traffic operations.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, manage, and validate site-specific adaptation data.
• Configure TFDM system parameters for local operations, coordinating with FAA facilities and airports, performing adaptation testing and validation, and maintaining version-controlled configuration records to ensure operational accuracy and interoperability.
• Develop, manage, and validate site adaptation data tailored to each TFDM deployment location (e.g., airports, TRACONs).
• Ensure configurations accurately reflect local airspace, surface operations, runway/taxiway layouts, and stakeholder operational procedures.
• Collect and analyze local site data such as flight schedules, runway configurations, surveillance inputs, and facility-specific workflows.
• Coordinate with local air traffic control facilities and airport authorities to obtain accurate, up-to-date operational data.
• Customize TFDM system parameters for surface metering, departure sequencing, runway assignments, and flight data exchange to reflect the unique needs of each site.
• Support the calibration of algorithms to optimize surface traffic management and throughput.
• Use FAA-authorized adaptation tools and software to build, test, and deploy configuration files.
• Maintain version control and configuration management practices to ensure integrity and traceability of adaptation data.
• Ensure consistency and compatibility of adaptation data with interfacing systems such as STARS, ERAM, TBFM, and surface surveillance systems.
• Coordinate interface configurations to support seamless data exchange and operational interoperability.
• Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and Dry Runs to validate the performance of site-specific adaptations.
• Conduct pre- and post-deployment validation to ensure the system functions as intended under local operating conditions.
• Collaborate with FAA site leads, facility personnel, airline operators, and airport representatives to define operational needs and validate adaptation outputs.
• Support user feedback collection and incorporate changes into adaptation updates.
• Prepare technical documentation including adaptation guides, site-specific configuration summaries, and version release notes.
• Maintain records of adaptation changes, rationale, and stakeholder approvals in accordance with FAA change management policies.
• Provide on-site or remote support during TFDM system transition, ensuring real-time resolution of adaptation-related issues.
• Assist controllers and technical staff in understanding adaptation elements during the go-live process.
• Recommend updates to the adaptation process based on lessons learned, system feedback, and evolving site requirements.
• Monitor deployed system performance and propose adaptation refinements to enhance operational effectiveness.
  

Skills Required:

• Detail oriented, independent, self-motivated, and a proactive team member.
  

Skills Preferred:

• Experience with FAA NAS or Mission Support systems.

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field (engineering, math, physics, chemistry, biology, meteorology/earth sciences, aeronautical science, computer science) and 10-15 years relevant experience.

Additionally, US Citizenship or documented proof of eligibility to work in the US is a must. Upon receiving a conditional offer of employment, candidates will undergo a Government investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for Government clearance. Verification of past employment, education and references is also required. It is imperative that candidates be either a US citizen or a current green card holder with the last 3 consecutive years as a resident of the US.

The salary range for positions is $50,000 to $175,000. This range is provided as a general guideline and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of compensation. Actual salary offers will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the specific responsibilities of the position, the candidates education, experience, location, knowledge, skills, and abilities. In addition, compensation may be influenced by applicable Federal Government contract labor categories and established contract wage rates.

At A3 Technology, Inc., we take pride in being an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AA) employer. We're committed to considering all qualified candidates for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, protected veteran status, disability, national origin, genetic information or any other protected status.