Engineer – Test Data & Instrumentation

Otto Aerospace

2d • Remote

About The Position

Reporting to the Manager–Test Data & Instrumentation, the Test Data & Instrumentation Engineer supports the design, procurement, and use of instrumentation and data acquisition systems for material, structural, mechanical/electrical, and flight testing. This role supports data integrity and system reliability by delivering accurate installation data, acceptance checks, calibration records, and configuration documentation in collaboration with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate demonstrates leadership in communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field
• 4+ years progressive, relevant experience in aircraft instrumentation and data acquisition systems
• Understanding of instrumentation principles, aircraft systems, and applicable regulatory frameworks, with demonstrated ability to apply them under guidance
• Proficiency with data acquisition sensors and systems (strain gages, accelerometers, load cells, thermocouples, pressure transducers, RVDTs, string pots, encoders, etc.)
• Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or C++ for data collection and analysis
• Experience with aerospace protocols (ARINC 429/664, CANbus) and telemetry systems
• Familiarity with FAA 14 CFR Part 23/25/27/29 and international certification standards and processes for instrumentation and test data systems
• Experience working in ground and flight test environments supporting experimental aircraft operations and certification
• Experience testing aircraft composite structures and mechanical/electrical systems
• Ability to read, interpret, and create engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, test plans, and technical procedures
• 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

Nice To Haves

• Design and 3D modeling experience with CATIA software is preferred
• Experience with digital signal processing, wireless data transmission systems and protocols for telemetry, line-of-sight and beyond, is a plus
• Experience with EWIS and EMI is a plus

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Design Engineering, Test, Quality, and Airworthiness to establish aircraft material, structure, systems, simulator, and flight vehicle test data requirements for development and certification
• Work with Design Engineering and Test teams to define test equipment, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems
• Create and update installation and maintenance design data (drawings, wiring diagrams, channel lists, and work instructions) for test equipment, instrumentation systems, and data acquisition equipment
• Follow established processes, standards, and best practices for the installation and maintenance of instrumentation and data acquisition equipment, and author improvements based on lessons learned
• Support the installation, calibration, and maintenance of instrumentation, data acquisition, and telemetry equipment by preparing documentation, assisting with execution, and tracking calibration status, parameter validity, and hardware/software configurations
• Maintain calibration records and ensure parameter validity across all instrumentation assets throughout each test program
• Maintain configuration control records and documentation for assigned instrumentation and data acquisition equipment during each test program in accordance with company and regulatory standards
• Support instrumentation and data acquisition systems for test articles and flight test aircraft
• Consult on instrumentation and data acquisition system description test plan content
• Support the development and execution of acceptance test procedures for installed instrumentation and data acquisition equipment, documenting results and anomalies
• Support real‑time and post‑test data visualization, validation, and analysis
• Maintain close communication with Engineering and Test teams to ensure effective instrumentation definition, efficient test execution, and proper data capture
• Advise and support instrumentation and data acquisition conducted by third parties
• Participate in instrumentation and data acquisition troubleshooting and root cause investigations by collecting evidence, reproducing issues where feasible, documenting findings, and supporting corrective actions
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to process efficiency, safety, and data quality
• Support offsite operations and flexible scheduling (including nights, weekends, and holidays) when required

Benefits

• Otto Aerospace provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short-term disability, voluntary long-term disability and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick leave.
• Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level