Avionics Test Engineer, Hardware

About the role

Apex Technology is seeking a hardware-focused test engineer to support our growing avionics team in Los Angeles. You will manage the full lifecycle of spacecraft test environments, from rack configuration to executing complex qualification campaigns for our satellite buses. In this capacity, you will own the validation of flight hardware through methodical and repeatable testing procedures. Your work will ensure that avionics components meet stringent performance and reliability standards before flight. You will act as a technical lead in diagnosing issues that arise during environmental and functional testing. This role requires close collaboration with design, integration, and operations teams to resolve hardware anomalies efficiently. You will contribute directly to mission success by maintaining the integrity of test data and hardware readiness.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Build, maintain, and configure component and bus-level test racks for a variety of avionics modules.
• Manage hardware integration tasks including harnessing, fixturing, and interface validation to ensure correct electrical connections.
• Troubleshoot flight hardware using oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies, DAQ systems, VNAs, and signal analyzers with precision.
• Execute acceptance testing, environmental screening, and functional checkouts to verify compliance with program requirements.
• Support qualification campaigns including TVAC, thermal cycling, vibration, and EMI/EMC testing procedures.
• Perform RF testing such as near-field antenna analysis, S-parameter measurements, and insertion loss characterization for communication systems.
• Create and maintain technical documentation, including test procedures, BOMs, and configuration records to ensure traceability.
• Lead end-to-end avionics test projects and mentor junior team members to elevate the overall capability of the team.
• Coordinate test schedules and resources to meet tight project timelines without compromising safety or quality.
• Implement test automation solutions to increase coverage and reduce manual repetitive tasks in the validation process.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Possess a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in electronics or aerospace hardware testing in a regulated environment.
• Demonstrate hands-on experience with hardware bring-up and laboratory instrumentation across multiple project phases.
• Show proficiency with embedded communication protocols including I2C, CAN, SPI, and UART for debugging and validation.
• Exhibit the ability to troubleshoot integrated electrical systems to isolate faults and verify correct operation.
• Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder) to comply with ITAR regulations governing defense-related technology.
• Maintain attention to detail to ensure test setups are safe, repeatable, and accurately documented.
• Work effectively within a team environment while also taking ownership of individual test campaigns and deliverables.

Nice to have

• Experience with spacecraft, launch vehicle, or flight electronics testing in relevant mission environments.
• Background in RF communications and associated lab equipment for analyzing signal integrity and performance.
• Skills in vibration testing, environmental testing, harnessing, and fixturing for complex hardware assemblies.
• Knowledge of RF interconnect characterization and coaxial cable selection to minimize signal loss and interference.
• Experience with PCB design or hardware prototyping to support rapid iteration and test fixture development.
• Familiarity with sensor functional tests, leak checks, or avionics channelization for comprehensive validation.
• Scripting ability in Python for test automation to improve efficiency and reduce human error.

Practical notes

• This is a full-time position based in Los Angeles with standard office hours.
• The office is located in the Playa Vista area, with access to daily catered lunches and office amenities.
• Benefits include 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for employees and dependents, plus $100k life insurance.
• Compensation range is $110K - $165K, reflecting experience and alignment with company targets.
• Includes 401(k) with matching, 8 weeks paid parental leave, and childcare reimbursement to support family needs.
• Starting vacation is 15 days, increasing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 company-recognized holidays.
• U.S. Person status is required for this role due to ITAR compliance requirements.
• Candidates must be available for in-office work at the Los Angeles location on a full-time basis.
• This role may require participation in environmental and RF testing campaigns that extend beyond standard hours to meet project milestones.