Systems Flight Analyst (DER)

Joby Aviation•Santa Cruz, CA

1d•$198,000 - $272,000

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Systems Engineer with expertise in Flight Analysis of Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems, and Autoflight Control Systems to join our team. You will be responsible for ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and guidelines related to the design, integration, and performance of these aircraft systems. Your role will involve working closely with design engineers, project managers, and regulatory agencies to facilitate the certification process for flight characteristics related to complex aircraft systems. This position requires a solid understanding of the aircraft’s flight characteristics, using the integrity of electrical power, mechanical components, control system logic, system safety assessments (SSA/PSSA), and aviation certification processes. The candidate is required to be a current designated engineering representative (DER) or equivalent.

Requirements

BS in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
10+ years working in the field of aircraft system certification or system safety.
In-depth knowledge of FAA regulations, guidelines, and advisory circulars pertaining to aircraft systems, such as FAR Part 23, Part 25, Part 27, and Part 29 (subparts related to equipment, systems, and safety assessment).
FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) – Flight Analyst - Systems/Mechanical or Systems/Electrical.
Strong understanding of Autoflight Control Systems (e.g., flight control computers, actuators, sensors), electrical power generation/distribution, and mechanical/hydraulic system design principles.
Familiarity with certification standards and requirements of other aviation authorities (e.g., EASA).
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex technical issues and propose effective solutions.
Detail-oriented approach with a high level of accuracy in documentation and compliance.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, regulatory authorities, and external stakeholders.
Proven track record of successfully leading FAA certification projects for Autoflight, Electrical, or Mechanical Systems.
Ability to adapt to evolving regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Nice To Haves

Whole-aircraft FAA certification program experience, Part 23 or Part 27 systems certification preferred.
Expertise in system safety analysis (FHA, PSSA, SSA), DO-178C (Software), and DO-254 (Hardware).
Experience in Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) testing, data acquisition, and documenting and analyzing results.
Experience and involvement with industry groups to develop consensus standards.

Responsibilities

Review and interpret FAA regulations, guidelines, and advisory circulars pertaining to Flight Analyst - Electrical, Mechanical, and Autoflight Control Systems, including system safety and functional requirements.
Collaborate with design engineers and project teams to ensure compliance with FAA requirements throughout the design and manufacturing process for system components and their integration.
Conduct thorough assessments and analysis of system designs, wiring diagrams, mechanical component stress/fatigue, and control law logic, including simulation results and failure analyses.
Review test plans and reports (e.g., Environmental, EMI/EMC, Hardware-in-the-Loop), and make approval recommendations in accordance with FAA guidelines.
Coordinate and communicate with FAA representatives and regulatory authorities to facilitate the certification process and address any inquiries or concerns.
Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements, industry trends, and best practices in systems engineering, system safety, and FAA certification processes for complex systems.
Collaborate with internal teams to develop and implement training programs on FAA certification requirements for electrical, mechanical, and control systems.
Witness system qualification and integration testing in support of type certification.
Provide technical expertise and guidance to engineering teams regarding component selection, system architecture, and compliance with failure condition classifications.
Participate in cross-functional teams to resolve technical issues, implement process improvements, and drive continuous improvement in FAA certification practices.