Senior Systems Test Manager
About The Position
Electra is hiring a Senior Systems Test Manager to establish and lead its ground systems test and evaluation capability from the ground up. The function will operate as a service organization, with engineering as its primary customer. The role owns the development of test infrastructure, including instrumentation and simulation labs, and carries budget and headcount responsibility as the capability scales to support EL9 certification milestones. The manager will establish instrumentation capabilities for both ground and flight testing and lead development of software- and hardware-in-the-loop simulation labs. Examples include a hybrid-propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and the aircraft as a whole; engineering flight simulators; and static and dynamic structural testing. The role is the primary contact for ground testing and instrumentation with internal customer organizations. Electra is developing the EL9, a nine-passenger hybrid-electric aircraft designed to take off and land in 150 feet. The company is moving toward first test flights in 2027. Compensation is $182,000–$220,000 USD, with performance bonus and comprehensive benefits. The position may be subject to ITAR requirements.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or a related engineering field, or equivalent experience; aerospace, electrical, or mechanical engineering is preferred.
- 10 years of experience in systems ground testing and instrumentation.
- Experience building test and instrumentation capabilities, rather than only operating existing capabilities.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with test and evaluation at an aircraft manufacturer.
- CAA (FAA/EASA) aircraft certification experience.
- U.S. Person status.
- Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, Xplane, Speedgoat, or HBM DAQ.
Responsibilities
- Establish the ground systems test and evaluation capability as a service organization with engineering as its primary customer.
- Establish an instrumentation capability that supports ground and flight testing.
- Lead development of software- and hardware-in-the-loop simulation labs, including labs for hybrid propulsion, flight controls, avionics, and the aircraft as a whole; engineering flight simulators; and static and dynamic structural testing.
- Serve as the primary contact for ground testing and instrumentation with internal customer organizations.
- Manage the function's budget and human resources as the capability scales to meet EL9 certification milestones.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance.
- Generous paid time off, sick leave, and company holidays.
- Paid winter break.
- 401(k) with immediate vesting.
- Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at the Manassas headquarters.
- Free on-site parking.
- Performance bonus.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
