Avionics Equipment Technical Owner

About the role

The Exploration Company is at the forefront of aerospace innovation, developing Nyx, a reusable orbital vehicle aimed at revolutionizing cargo transport and paving the way for future human space missions. We are on the lookout for a dedicated technical owner who will oversee the entire lifecycle of avionics hardware, from the initial design phase to the rigorous flight qualification process. This role is pivotal in ensuring that our avionics systems meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the comprehensive development process of a designated avionics unit, guiding it from the initial breadboard stage to the final flight model.
• Facilitate collaboration among various engineering disciplines, including electronics, mechanical, thermal, and digital engineering teams, to ensure cohesive project execution.
• Establish and confirm technical specifications at the unit level, ensuring all requirements are met throughout the development process.
• Manage the creation and maintenance of unit documentation, including Interface Control Documents, as well as overseeing box-level Failure Detection, Isolation, and Recovery (FDIR) and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) processes.
• Plan and conduct extensive test campaigns, encompassing functional and environmental assessments such as vibration, shock, thermal vacuum (TVAC), and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing.
• Evaluate test outcomes to inform and enhance unit design across various iterations, ensuring continuous improvement and reliability.
• Work closely with system engineering teams to integrate avionics units into broader functional systems, including propulsion and Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS).
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the team.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related discipline is essential.
• Demonstrated experience in designing avionics systems for aerospace applications or other high-reliability sectors is required.
• Familiarity with space industry standards such as ECSS, MIL-STD, or NASA-HBK is crucial for ensuring compliance and quality.
• A solid understanding of safety-critical design principles and Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety (RAMS) concepts, including FMECA and FDIR, is necessary.
• Proven ability to conduct hands-on debugging and testing in a lab environment, showcasing practical problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in avionics design software and analytical tools is expected to facilitate effective design and analysis.

Nice to have

• Experience with software development for avionics systems can be an added advantage.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies, particularly Agile practices, is beneficial.
• Knowledge of advanced simulation tools for avionics systems design would enhance your candidacy.
• Previous involvement in space missions or projects related to reusable spacecraft is a plus.

Skills & tools

• Expertise in avionics design and hardware development processes.
• Proficient in conducting FDIR and FMECA analyses to ensure system reliability.
• Experience with environmental testing methodologies, including vibration, shock, thermal vacuum (TVAC), and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
• Knowledge of space industry standards such as ECSS, MIL-STD, and NASA-HBK to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Strong skills in coordinating multidisciplinary projects, ensuring all engineering teams work towards a common goal.

Practical notes

• The company offers relocation assistance for candidates moving to Munich, making the transition smoother.
• Visa sponsorship is available for qualified applicants, ensuring a seamless onboarding process for international talent.
• Employment is contingent upon a background check conducted through Zinc Work Limited, ensuring a secure work environment.
• The Exploration Company prides itself on fostering an agile, transparent, and collaborative workplace culture, where innovation and teamwork are highly valued.

Join us at The Exploration Company and be part of a pioneering team that is shaping the future of space travel!

About the company

The Exploration Company is a European space technology startup developing reusable orbital vehicles, focused on making space more accessible and sustainable.