Senior Spacecraft Avionics Test Engineer
About The Position
Varda is developing commercial space infrastructure, including in-orbit pharmaceutical processing and reentry capsules. The company designs, builds, and operates its W-Series vehicles in-house, including pharmaceutical processing payloads, capsules, C-PICA heat shields, and satellite buses. Varda is headquartered in El Segundo, California, with additional offices in Washington, DC, and Huntsville, Alabama. The Senior Spacecraft Avionics Test Engineer designs and operates test systems that simulate and stress-test flight hardware, helping verify readiness for spaceflight. The role supports Varda’s Winnebago-class spacecraft and future projects, including space manufacturing and hypersonic testing during reentry. It involves developing Python test software, planning and conducting tests, collaborating with engineering teams, and improving test automation and efficiency. 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 Git source control.
- Must meet the stated U.S. person eligibility requirement for access to export-controlled items.
Nice To Haves
- Experience establishing 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 environment, tackle challenges, and pursue personal and professional growth.
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.
- Collaborate 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.
- Contribute to engineering best practices, with a focus on improving 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 support a culture of learning and continuous improvement.
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
