Chief Technician, Test Data & Instrumentation

Otto Aerospace

106d

About The Position

Reporting to the Manager–Test Data & Instrumentation, the Chief Technician–Test Data & Instrumentation leads the hands-on execution and oversight of instrumentation systems, supporting material, structural, mechanical/electrical, and flight testing. This role ensures data integrity through precise installation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of instrumentation and data acquisition systems. The Chief Technician will also mentor junior technicians and collaborate closely with engineering and test teams to support development and certification efforts.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering Technology or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience
• 8+ years of relevant experience in aircraft instrumentation and data acquisition systems
• Proficiency with sensors and systems including strain gauges, load cells, thermocouples, RVDTs, encoders, and pressure transducers
• Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or C++ for data collection and analysis
• Familiarity with aerospace protocols (ARINC 429/664, CANbus) and telemetry systems
• Working knowledge of FAA certification standards (14 CFR Part 23/25/27/29)
• Experience with EWIS, EMI, and composite structure testing
• Experience working in flight test environments and supporting experimental aircraft operations
• Familiarity with lab tools such as oscilloscopes, breakout boxes, and signal generators
• Strong understanding of aircraft system architectures and integration workflows
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Comfortable working independently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, test plans, and technical procedures
• Familiarity with FAA conformity processes and aerospace test documentation practices
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and leadership skills with a collaborative mindset
• Continuous learning mindset

Nice To Haves

• Active Listening: Strive to gain insight and truly understand all project stakeholders
• Critical Thinking: Make prompt, informed, value-based decisions
• Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, as well as communicating tasks, updates, progress, and blockers
• Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points to formulate the best solution
• Self-Motivation: Demonstrate the highest level of commitment and drive to see projects through
• Teamwork and Team Building: Contribute to a collaborative culture where people with unique personalities and skills work together effectively and hold themselves accountable to shared goals
• Strong Business Communication: Use professional language and tone in all forms of communication

Responsibilities

• Lead the installation, calibration, and maintenance of instrumentation, data acquisition, and telemetry systems on test articles and flight test aircraft
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Design Engineering, Flight Test Engineering, and Quality, to define instrumentation requirements for aircraft materials, structures, systems, and flight vehicles
• Manage sensor installations, cable routing, and interface development for strain gauges, accelerometers, thermocouples, pressure transducers, and other sensors
• Configure, troubleshoot, and lead resolution efforts for instrumentation and data acquisition issues to ensure test objectives are met
• Execute acceptance test procedures and ensure system readiness for each test program
• Maintain calibration records and ensure parameter validity across all instrumentation assets
• Maintain configuration control and documentation in accordance with company standards
• Execute test procedures, collect data, and assist in root cause analysis of system anomalies
• Support real-time and post-flight data visualization and analysis
• Fly aboard experimental aircraft to support developmental and certification flight tests as needed
• Support offsite operations and flexible scheduling (including nights, weekends, and holidays) when required
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior technicians
• Maintain lab cleanliness, organization, and inventory of tools, fixtures, and consumables
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to test efficiency, safety, and data quality

Benefits

• Competitive salaries
• Subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) opportunities
• Paid short-term disability
• Voluntary long-term disability and additional term life
• 15 paid days off
• 15 paid holidays
• Paid sick leave
• Potential bonuses and stock options depending on seniority and role

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree