Lead Avionics Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is dedicated to pioneering advancements in hypersonic testing technologies. We are in search of a Lead Avionics Engineer to guide our avionics team responsible for the development of air-launched hypersonic vehicles. This position entails providing technical guidance, mentoring fellow engineers, and overseeing the design, integration, and testing processes of avionics systems.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the architectural design, analysis, integration, and testing of avionics and electrical systems for hypersonic vehicles.
• Manage configuration control for critical avionics components, including wiring diagrams and CAD models.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to establish requirements and devise technical solutions.
• Work closely with subsystem leaders to define requirements, develop test plans, and establish testing procedures.
• Conduct thorough analyses of system designs to ensure compliance with program specifications.
• Engage with external clients on matters related to range integration, launch licensing, safety documentation, and payload integration.
• Review design presentations and actively participate in design evaluations throughout the vehicle development lifecycle.
• Support ground and flight testing efforts as required.
• Identify potential risks and formulate effective mitigation strategies.
• Maintain consistent communication with the program's Chief Engineer regarding project progress and updates.
• Address avionics requirements with the Chief Engineer, including training needs and equipment upgrades.
• Oversee direct reports through regular performance evaluations and meetings.
• Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems with a focus on innovation and efficiency.
• Commit to upholding integrity, accountability, and responsibility in all professional engagements.

Requirements

• Proficient in one or more of the following domains: electrical engineering, avionics, experimental aircraft, or integration of launch vehicles.
• Demonstrated experience in managing aerospace vehicle manufacturing processes.
• Background in the integration of avionics wiring and hardware into aerospace platforms.
• Familiarity with aerospace vehicle testing protocols, including both ground and flight tests.
• Knowledge of telemetry systems and compliance with IRIG-106 standards (CH4, CH10, CH7).
• Experience in data acquisition and instrumentation techniques, including the use of thermocouples and strain gauges.
• Strong understanding of electrical power systems and their applications.
• Ability to create and evaluate wiring diagrams and circuit schematics effectively.
• Experience in conducting electrical design analyses, including power and thermal evaluations.
• Self-driven with excellent organizational and prioritization abilities.
• Background in developing complex aerospace systems.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and project demands.
• Capability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance as required.

Nice to have

• Experience with advanced programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or Matlab.
• Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies.
• Previous experience in a leadership role within an aerospace engineering environment.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in programming languages including C/C++, Python, or Matlab for software development and analysis.
• Competent in using the MS Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and Outlook for documentation and communication.

Practical notes

• The position is located in Mojave, CA.
• Occasional travel may be necessary, estimated at less than 5% of the time.

Education & experience

• Senior Level ($120,500-$158,000): Requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field along with 5-10 years of engineering experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Staff Level ($157,000-$206,000): Requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline and 10-20 years of engineering experience, or a suitable combination of education and experience.

Stratolaunch is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or other protected characteristics. Please note that U.S. citizenship may be required for certain roles that necessitate government clearance.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.