Human Factors Specialist

Human Factors Specialist

Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA)

We are seeking an experienced Human Factors Specialist to join our Engineering & Air Safety (E&AS) department in Tysons (McLean), Virginia. The specialist will serve as the primary point of contact and subject matter expert on promoting safety by integrating human factors principles throughout aircraft design, certification, and airline operations.

• Ensure human factors considerations are systematically integrated into aircraft design, certification, standard operating procedures, and airline training systems.
• Support evaluation of regulatory proposals, operational concepts, and emerging technologies, including automation advancements, to identify human‑factor issues and promote pilot‑centered solutions.
• Apply human‑systems integration (HSI) principles to assess aviation systems, operations, training programs, and regulations that affect pilot workload, flight‑deck interface design, and operational safety.
• Analyze aviation safety, operations, and research data to identify trends and recommend interventions, mitigations, and trade‑offs.
• Contribute expertise to the development and harmonization of domestic and international standards and collaborate closely with ALPA pilot volunteers in technical groups.
• Reinforce the link between human factors and safety by ensuring system and training designs reflect operational realities and manage workload effectively.

Up to 20%, with occasional sporadic travel that could reach 25% of the time.

• Master’s degree in aviation human factors or a related field from an accredited institution; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Five (5) or more years of direct post‑education experience in aviation human factors related to pilot performance, flight‑deck design, SOPs, workload management, and/or other human‑factor studies.
• In‑depth knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). Knowledge of Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) is desirable.
• Prior work experience with airlines, the FAA, Transport Canada, or related aviation organizations in human‑factor roles is highly desirable.
• Pilot’s license with instrument rating preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in the design, implementation, and evaluation of SOPs, emphasizing human‑centered principles.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for effective interaction with pilots, regulators, airline representatives, and technical experts.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic regulatory and industry environment.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to changing demands.
• Able to work independently and proactively identify and respond to issues.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Teams, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Flexibility to work a flexible schedule on short notice as needed.

Continuous computer/smartphone/tablet use. Regular stationary position, moving around the office and local metropolitan area, sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and moving about office and travel both locally and internationally. Occasionally required to lift items up to 10 lbs; during travel may need to lift items up to 50 lbs.

ALPA is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination, harassment, and harmful behavior of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, caste, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or other protected characteristics as outlined in federal or provincial laws. We encourage everyone—including minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities—to apply.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

• 401(k) Plan with a 12% non‑elective employer contribution and additional 2% contribution into a Market‑Based Cash Balance Plan after 180 days.
• Generous health care benefits on day one (Aetna PPO, Aetna High Deductible, Kaiser HMO). Employees may enroll in the Aetna High Deductible or Kaiser HMO without paying premiums.
• 15 days paid vacation, 13 holidays, and 2 volunteer days per year.
• Generous sick and bereavement leave.
• Competitive parental leave.
• Company‑paid long‑term disability, life insurance, and accidental death & dismemberment.
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings accounts.
• Retiree health plan and retiree HRA.
• Education Assistance Program that reimburses 100% of eligible expenses.
• Optional benefits: legal plan, supplemental life insurance, 529 plan, pet insurance, long‑term care insurance, qualified transportation fringe benefits (where available).
• Partial remote work opportunities after six months of service.

$96,027 – $137,179.

Relocation not provided.

Work‑site sponsorship not available for this position.