Lead Avionics Engineer

About the role

The is responsible for owning the complete electrical architecture of hypersonic vehicle programs from initial concept sketches through flight hardware delivery. This role requires managing the full lifecycle of electrical systems, including the design, analysis, and testing of wiring harnesses and sensors while adhering to strict safety and quality protocols. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with airframe and propulsion disciplines to establish and maintain robust interface standards essential for system integration. Leading a multidisciplinary team of engineers is a core responsibility to ensure system reliability under extreme operational conditions and mission profiles. The position offers the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking technology within a fast-paced, collaborative, and highly iterative development environment. By applying a philosophy of rapid prototyping, the engineer will help turn complex avionics concepts into reliable flying hardware efficiently and safely. This role is critical in supporting the company's focus on deterring global threats through disciplined engineering and repeatable experimentation.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Execute the development and management of avionics hardware for hypersonic vehicle programs as posted for the Lead Avionics Engineer role.
• Define intake requirements for new avionics modules and establish validation checkpoints throughout the development cycle to ensure design integrity.
• Architect signal chains and power distribution networks while rigorously adhering to thermal and electromagnetic compatibility constraints.
• Schedule and conduct design reviews with airframe and propulsion teams to guarantee alignment on system interfaces and performance expectations.
• Maintain rigorous documentation and traceability practices to facilitate the successful delivery of flight hardware and compliance with standards.
• Partner with suppliers to qualify critical components such as connectors, harnesses, and test fixtures for manufacturing readiness and reliability.
• Develop analytical models that predict electrical performance across various speed regimes and mission profiles to guide design decisions.
• Analyze test results to identify anomalies, refine designs, and direct corrective actions to resolve issues efficiently.
• Mentor junior engineers on methodologies for diagnosing faults in avionics hardware systems to build team capability and resilience.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related technical discipline as a foundational requirement for the role.
• Possess between three and seven years of experience managing avionics projects in high-pressure, demanding environments with strict deadlines.
• Demonstrate hands-on experience with wiring harnesses, electrical connectors, sensors, and power systems architecture essential for hypersonic applications.
• Show familiarity with DO standards and verification processes specific to defense programs to ensure compliance and reliability.
• Exhibit the ability to interpret technical datasheets and convert complex requirements into practical hardware solutions effectively.
• Maintain a strong commitment to safety protocols and quality standards throughout all phases of the avionics lifecycle.
• Thrive in a collaborative team environment where cross-functional coordination with airframe and propulsion disciplines is required.
• Apply problem-solving skills to manage the complete lifecycle of electrical systems under extreme operational conditions.

Nice to have

• Prior experience with high-speed data buses and implementation of low-noise power supplies is highly valued for this advanced systems role.

Practical notes

• The position is based in Los Angeles, California, and is a full-time engagement.
• The compensation package includes a base salary of $220,000, an annual bonus of $40,000, and equity valued at $60,000 based on the 2024 fiscal year.
• Please confirm all application details on the official portal to ensure current information and submission procedures.
• The role involves working on cutting-edge defense and aviation technology projects with demanding timelines and performance requirements.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship as this position requires adherence to strict security and compliance standards.
• Travel may be required to support testing, design reviews, and supplier qualification activities as dictated by project needs.
• Proficiency with DO-254 and DO-178 standards is required. Candidates must have experience using ModelSim for simulation, Ansys for analysis, and Siemens NX for design. Familiarity with Jira for task tracking, Confluence for documentation, and GitHub for version control is mandatory.
• Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all materials submitted reflect genuine abilities and direct experience relevant to avionics engineering roles.
• The fast-paced environment demands adaptability, continuous learning, and a proactive approach to engineering challenges.
• This role is integral to advancing the company's mission of reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build fast and powerful aircraft on relevant timelines.
• The successful candidate will contribute to national security objectives by supporting the development of asymmetric capabilities for national and allied defense through reliable avionics systems.