Senior Avionics Engineer

Staff/ Senior Avionics Engineer

At Electra, we're pioneering hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air mobility. Our technology enables operations from soccer-field-sized spaces, unlocking thousands of new locations and enabling what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, efficient, point-to-point travel closer to where people live and work.

Headquartered in Manassas, VA, with additional operations in Switzerland, Electra is backed by industry leaders and advancing toward certification. We're a growing team of innovators working at the forefront of sustainable aviation-every hire plays a critical role in shaping the future of flight.

The Role

As a Mid-Level Avionics Engineer, you will support the development, integration, and optimization of avionics for Electra's flagship nine-passenger EL9 aircraft. This role contributes to system architecture, performance, safety, and certification readiness, including areas such as power distribution, data interfaces, and system integration.

You will work closely with cross-functional teams-including propulsion, Low Voltage Electrical, flight controls, and structures-to ensure seamless integration of avionics systems across the aircraft. The role requires a hands-on engineering approach, contributing to design, integration, testing, and troubleshooting activities throughout the development lifecycle while helping maintain strong engineering rigor, reliability, and compliance.

What You'll Do

• Support the design, development, and integration of avionics systems, including communication, navigation, flight control, and cockpit systems
• Translate system-level requirements into detailed avionics requirements, architectures, and interface definitions
• Develop and maintain engineering artifacts such as:
• Electrical schematics
• Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
• Requirements and verification documentation
• Perform integration and validation activities, including lab testing (SIL/HIL), ground testing, and flight test support
• Collaborate with cross-functional IPTs (systems, structures, propulsion, software) to ensure seamless system integration
• Support supplier evaluation and technical oversight for avionics equipment
• Participate in design reviews (PDR/CDR) and support certification activities
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues across development and integration phases
• Demonstrate a hands-on mindset, supporting system integration, working directly with hardware, and troubleshooting issues in lab and aircraft environments

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5–10 years of experience in avionics or aerospace electrical systems
• Experience with:
• Avionics system design and integration
• Requirements development and management (e.g., DOORS or similar tools)
• Electrical schematics and interface definition
• Familiarity with avionics communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet, ARINC, CAN)
• Ability to interpret:
• Electrical and wiring diagrams
• System architecture drawings
• Engineering specifications
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional IPT environment
• Strong communication and technical documentation skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting avionics or electrical system development for FAA Part 23 aircraft programs
• Familiarity with aircraft certification processes and related documentation
• Exposure to hybrid-electric propulsion systems or advanced aircraft electrical architectures
• Experience working with or coordinating with external suppliers on avionics components
• Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., JAMA) or system modeling tools (MATLAB/Simulink)
• Private pilot license a plus

Leveling Expectations

Level (Staff or Senior) will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, demonstrated skills, and degree of independence and autonomy.

Both levels require a strong foundation in engineering principles and the ability to solve complex technical problems. Differentiation between levels is based on degree of ownership, autonomy, and influence.

Staff Engineer (5+ years)

• Experienced with frequent application of technical standards,…