Avionics Architect

Our client is a rapidly growing start-up at the forefront of the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) industry. They are committed to revolutionizing drone technology and delivering high-performance, innovative solutions that transform industries. As a dynamic, fast-paced company, they are seeking an experienced Avionics Architect to lead the design and development of cutting-edge avionics systems for their next-generation drones. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking company and make a significant impact in the rapidly evolving drone space.

As the Engineering Manager / Avionics Architect, the successful candidate will be responsible for leading the design, development, and integration of avionics systems for the company's drone platforms. This role involves overseeing both electrical and mechanical engineering teams, ensuring seamless integration of hardware and software across systems. The Avionics Architect will be responsible for defining the avionics architecture and ensuring that the systems meet high standards of performance, reliability, and scalability for commercial and industrial applications.

This position requires a deep understanding of avionics systems, electronics, embedded systems, and mechanical design principles. The Avionics Architect will work closely with cross-functional teams, including software engineers, product managers, and regulatory specialists, to drive the successful development and deployment of drone technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Avionics System Design: Lead the design, development, and architecture of avionics systems, including flight control, communication, navigation, power management, and sensor integration for drone platforms.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary team of electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and systems engineers. Foster a collaborative environment to ensure efficient project delivery.
• Hardware and Software Integration: Collaborate with software engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of avionics systems with flight control software, sensors, and other subsystems.
• Systems Architecture: Define system-level architecture for avionics, considering trade-offs in power consumption, performance, weight, and cost.
• Component Selection: Oversee the selection and evaluation of key hardware components (e.g., sensors, processors, power systems) for integration into the avionics system.
• Testing and Validation: Develop and implement testing strategies to validate avionics systems against performance, safety, and regulatory standards. Ensure that prototypes and final products meet the required certifications.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with product management, design, and production teams to ensure avionics systems are aligned with customer needs and business goals.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive innovation by researching new technologies, methods, and tools that can improve the performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of avionics systems.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all avionics systems comply with relevant aviation industry standards, regulations, and certifications (e.g., FAA, EASA).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field (Master's or PhD preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in avionics systems design, with at least 3 years in a leadership role managing engineering teams.
• Strong experience in electrical and mechanical systems integration, with a focus on embedded systems, avionics hardware, and flight control systems.
• Expertise in avionics hardware design, including microcontrollers, sensors, communication protocols (e.g., CAN, I2C, SPI), and power management systems.
• In-depth knowledge of mechanical systems and their integration with avionics (e.g., sensor mounts, enclosures, vibration isolation).
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements for aviation and unmanned systems (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254, FAA regulations).
• Proficiency in design tools such as Altium, MATLAB, Simulink, and others for system design, simulation, and testing.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to mentor teams and collaborate with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Hands-on experience with prototype development and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
• Passion for innovation and a deep interest in drone technology and autonomous systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with drone or UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) avionics and flight control systems.
• Familiarity with software-defined radio (SDR) and communication systems for UAS.
• Experience working in an agile or fast-paced start-up environment.
• Knowledge of machine learning and AI for avionics systems (e.g., autonomous flight, sensor fusion).
• Familiarity with international regulatory standards (e.g., EASA, ICAO).

Why Join Our Client?

• Impact: Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of aviation.
• Growth: Be part of a rapidly expanding company with significant opportunities for professional growth.
• Culture: Collaborative, dynamic team environment where innovation is valued and ideas can make a real difference.
• Benefits: Competitive salary, equity options, flexible work schedule, health benefits, and more.