Senior Avionics Test Engineer

Varda Space Industries•El Segundo, CA

19h•$140,333 - $202,703•Onsite

About The Position

As a Senior Avionics Test Engineer, you will design and operate critical systems that simulate and stress-test flight hardware to verify it is ready for spaceflight. The role supports Varda’s Winnebago-class spacecraft and future projects, helping ensure vehicles meet mission objectives spanning in-space manufacturing and hypersonic reentry testing. The position is on-site in El Segundo, California.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in system validation, component testing, or test software development, including at least 3 years working on aerospace test systems.
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 4–20 mA devices.
Proficiency with the Git source control system.
U.S. person status, as defined in the posting, to access export-controlled items.

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 environment that values innovation and tackling challenges.

Responsibilities

Design, build, and operate test systems for spacecraft avionics components and assemblies during environmental stress testing 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, with a focus 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 spacecraft systems on the ground.
Mentor and train new engineers and foster learning and continuous improvement within the team.