Sr. Principal - GNC Engineer

AeroVironment•Lawrence, KS

2d•$154,500 - $247,250•Onsite

About The Position

We are searching for a talented Sr. Principal. Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Engineer to play a critical role in developing next-generation unmanned air vehicles and robotic systems. As a key member of our innovative team, you will help architect flight algorithms, conduct advanced flight testing, and integrate cutting-edge technologies into real-world solutions. This role encompasses a multi-disciplinary background to include GN&C (60%), flight testing (20%), PCB Design (5%), Software (5%) and other projects (10%). This role helps lead development of technical proposals and project estimates, drives technical and engineering conflicts to resolution and ensures the engineering needs of their assigned product development projects are met. As an expert in the field, one uses professional concepts in developing resolution to critical issues and broad design matters.

Requirements

Advanced degree in a related engineering discipline is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
15+ years' of combined experience in aircraft design and/or project management, GN&C, flight testing, systems engineering and program management
Demonstrated hands-on attitude with a broad range of development experience
Has a comprehensive knowledge of engineering disciplines and prior experience leading the development of many of these systems for manned or unmanned air vehicles: Autopilot hardware and software; Flight control hardware and software; Part 23 & part 27 aircraft certification; Ground control communications hardware and software; Ground control support equipment; Air vehicle subsystems integration & test; Air vehicle systems communications hardware and software; High voltage electrical power systems
Travel within the continental U.S. is required to support flight test operations (up to 20%)
U.S. Citizenship required

Nice To Haves

PhD is preferred
Demonstrates knowledge of office software and computer based productivity tools.
Demonstrates expertise in engineering processes and design tools
Expertise in appropriate design and simulation tools and validation techniques
Demonstrates strong communication (verbal & written), presentation and collaboration skills
Is a proven leader who has demonstrated people development and leadership skills
Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties
Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives
Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products
Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company
Demonstrates effective problem-solving, analytical and interpersonal skills with the ability to work well across disciplines. Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests

Responsibilities

Appropriate engineering resources (personnel, equipment, etc.) are identified
Product designs meet technical, performance, and quality requirements
System Architecture is defined and flowed down to design teams
Project technical progress is tracked and communicated to assess project performance
Partners with senior leadership, manufacturing, quality, supply chain, and other groups in setting priorities, establishing strategic plans, and addressing issues that cross departmental boundaries
Oversees the design, development and validation of the flight control system for current and new products
Oversees system interfaces, test and flight test activities from subscale to full scale within perimeter
Implements designed flight control algorithms on to the aircraft flight control system hardware
Oversees preparation and execution of the validation of the flight control system including analysis (SIL/HIL/iron bird)
Manages and ensures proper integration and validation of the flight control system together with the avionic system.
Provides mentorship and transfer of knowledge to fellow engineers
Ensures risks/issues/opportunities are communicated to affected stakeholders
Works on issues that impact design/selling success and addresses future concepts, products or technologies
Other duties as assigned