Systems Engineering Specialist-Aviation

About Burns 

Burns is a nationally respected provider of specialized engineering services, bringing highly technical, sought-after engineering expertise to complex transportation and critical infrastructure projects.

For more than 50 years, we have built our reputation on outstanding client service. Ranked a Top Workplace and ENR Top 500 Design Firm, we are personally invested in helping our clients achieve their goals, sharing in their passions, and successfully guiding them through the challenges of complex projects using our no surprises Burns Unique Client Experience.

We are seeking a Systems Engineering Specialist to join our Aviation Technology team in Washington, D.C. 

Position Summary:

The Engineering Specialist will be responsible for performing technical engineering tasks, technical studies and investigations, and designs on assigned projects.  The Engineering Specialist will be mentored by senior level engineering staff, will work with more autonomy, and will complete engineering tasks of moderate complexity.    

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Complete discipline specific engineering for systems and designs of moderate complexity.   

• Sign and seal engineering drawings.   

• Assist in developing design approaches and concepts on projects with moderate complexity.  Consult with senior technical staff when needed.  

• Assist in the development of proposals and presentations to clients.  

• Perform specific engineering studies and design analyses and assist the Project Manager in establishing budgets, cost estimates, and project schedules.   

• Review drawings, RFIs, and records of changes and communicate directly with suppliers, contractors, and client representatives as required.  Consult with senior technical staff when needed.  

• Perform on-site surveys and inspections during design and construction stages and issue written reports noting deficiencies.  Consult with senior technical staff when needed.  

• Assist in the coordination of project designs with other disciplines and teams.   

• Attend client and/or project meetings when requested.   

• Write technical specifications with oversight from senior technical staff.  

• Assist Project Manager with the delegation, collaboration, and review of project work tasks of CAD Operators, CAD Technicians, Designers, Co-Ops, Interns, Engineering Design Associates, and Engineering Associates.    

• May lead development of design approaches and concepts on projects of low complexity.  Consult with senior technical staff when needed.   

• Perform all tasks in compliance with Burns (and, when applicable, a client’s) standards, policies, procedures, and engineering codes.   

• Perform all tasks efficiently, accurately, within the allotted project hours, and complete tasks on or before the due date.    

• Observe, understand, apply and retain Burns technical policies, procedures, design analyses, calculations, engineering methodology and codes, and equipment selection criteria of low to moderate complexity.  

• Complete special tasks as assigned. 

Supervisory Responsibilities

• No supervisory responsibilities

Education & Experience:

• A two or four year technical degree in applicable discipline or Bachelors Degree 


• Revit experience 


• 3 to 5 years low voltage design, AV design experience preferred, wifi design experience preferred 


• Aviation/Airport experience is preferred