Senior Space Avionics Test Engineer
About The Position
As a Senior Space Avionics Test Engineer, you will design and operate systems that simulate and stress-test flight hardware to verify its readiness for spaceflight. The role supports Varda’s Winnebago-class spacecraft and future projects, helping ensure vehicles meet mission objectives spanning space manufacturing and hypersonic reentry testing. You will build and operate avionics test systems, develop Python software for test execution and data analysis, and plan and conduct qualification, acceptance, and proto-flight testing. You will work with component responsible engineers, avionics test systems and manufacturing engineers, and avionics systems and flight software engineers. The role also contributes to test automation and engineering best practices and includes mentoring and training engineers. This is an on-site role in El Segundo, California. Candidates must be U.S. persons eligible for access to export-controlled technology. The salary range is $140,333–$202,703 per year. The role is eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards.
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.
- Must be a U.S. person permitted to access the relevant technology without an export license.
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience standing up Hardware in the Loop 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, collaborative work environment, tackle challenges, and engage in continued personal and professional growth.
Responsibilities
- Design, build, and operate test systems for spacecraft avionics components and assemblies, including 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.
- Collaborate with component Responsible Engineers to identify test cases and develop testing strategies for avionics products across extreme conditions.
- Develop 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 increased test automation and efficiency.
- Collaborate with avionics systems and flight software engineers to develop and operate Hardware in the Loop testbeds that simulate the spacecraft on the ground.
- Mentor and train new engineers, supporting learning and continuous improvement within the team.
Benefits
- Long-term incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
