Avionics Test Engineer II

Varda Space Industries•El Segundo, CA

19h•$119,543 - $172,673•Onsite

About The Position

Varda is developing commercial space infrastructure, including in-orbit pharmaceutical processing and reliable, economical reentry capsules. Its W-Series vehicles and related systems are designed, built, and operated in-house. The company is headquartered in El Segundo, California, with additional offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, Alabama. As an Avionics Test Engineer II, you will design and operate systems that simulate and stress-test spacecraft flight hardware. You will help verify that avionics components and assemblies are ready for flight and support the mission objectives of Varda’s Winnebago-class spacecraft and future projects. The role includes developing Python test software, planning and conducting hardware tests, collaborating with engineering teams, and supporting hardware-in-the-loop testbeds. This is an on-site position in El Segundo, California.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
At least 3 years of experience in system validation, component testing, or test software development.
Proficiency in programming and debugging with Python.
Experience with electronics test equipment, including power supplies, DAQ systems, electronic loads, oscilloscopes, and multimeters.
Familiarity with common sensor types, including thermocouples, RTDs, and 4-20mA devices.
Proficiency with Git source control system.
Must be a U.S. person permitted to access export-controlled technology without an export license.
Ability to work on-site in El Segundo, California.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience establishing HITL testbeds, managing configuration control, and driving and operating system-level tests.
Familiarity with Unix environments.
Experience developing test cases and test equipment to meet vehicle operating conditions.
Experience operating environmental test equipment such as vibration shakers, TVAC chambers, or thermal chambers.
Strong project or program management skills.
Ability to thrive in a dynamic, team-oriented work environment that values innovation and tackling challenges head-on.

Responsibilities

Design, build, and operate test systems for spacecraft avionics components and assemblies during environmental stress and component acceptance testing.
Develop Python software to implement and execute test procedures, analyze test data, assess pass/fail criteria, and generate test reports.
Work with component Responsible Engineers to identify test cases and develop testing strategies for avionics products across extreme conditions.
Create test plans for flight hardware and manage and conduct qualification, acceptance, and proto-flight tests.
Work with avionics test systems and manufacturing engineers to standardize test software behavior, user interfaces, and data reporting.
Help develop engineering best practices focused on increasing test automation and efficiency.
Collaborate with avionics systems and flight software engineers to develop and operate Hardware in the Loop (HITL) testbeds that simulate the spacecraft on the ground.