Spacecraft Avionics Test Engineer II

Varda Space Industries•El Segundo, CA

3h•$119,543 - $172,673•Onsite

About The Position

As a Spacecraft Avionics Test Engineer II, you will design and operate 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 spanning space manufacturing and hypersonic reentry testing. The role includes developing test systems and software, planning and conducting hardware tests, and collaborating with avionics, manufacturing, and flight software teams to improve test capabilities and readiness.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
At least 3 years of experience in system validation, component testing, or test software development.
Proficiency in programming and debugging with Python.
Experience with electronics test equipment, including power supplies, DAQ systems, electronic loads, oscilloscopes, and multimeters.
Familiarity with sensor types including thermocouples, RTDs, and 4–20 mA devices.
Proficiency with the Git source control system.

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 work environment that values teamwork, innovation, and tackling challenges, with willingness to take on diverse tasks and pursue personal and professional growth.

Responsibilities

Design, build, and operate test systems for spacecraft avionics components and assemblies, including for 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 under 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 an emphasis 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.