Senior Spacecraft Avionics Test Engineer
About The Position
As a Senior Spacecraft Avionics Test Engineer, you will design and operate critical systems that simulate and stress-test flight hardware to verify its readiness for spaceflight. Your work will support Varda’s Winnebago-class spacecraft and future projects, helping ensure vehicles meet mission objectives, including space manufacturing and hypersonic testing during reentry. The role includes developing and operating test systems and software for avionics hardware, preparing and conducting qualification, acceptance, and proto-flight tests, and collaborating with avionics, manufacturing, systems, and flight software engineers. You will also contribute to test automation and engineering best practices, help operate Hardware in the Loop testbeds, and mentor and train engineers. This is an on-site role 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 4–20mA devices.
- Proficiency with the Git source control system.
- Must meet the stated U.S. person eligibility requirement to access export-controlled items.
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 and take on diverse tasks.
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 that verify avionics performance across extreme conditions.
- Create test plans for flight hardware and manage and conduct qualification, acceptance, and proto-flight tests.
- Collaborate 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 testbeds that simulate the spacecraft on the ground.
- Mentor and train new engineers and foster learning and continuous improvement within the team.
Benefits
- Eligibility for 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
