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Applied Avionics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TerraFirma, Inc

Avionics Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

That's when we realized something important: the same engineering mindset that enabled us to tackle space exploration and mass manufacturing could be applied to infrastructure. By bringing the ...

Geologics

Embedded Software Engineer

Owego, NY

$45 - $90/hr

... be applied to and integrated with engineering, scientific, and manufacturing requirements ... avionics, mechanical and electrical systems, weapons armament, commercial and military aircraft ...

Geologics

Embedded Software Engineer

Owego, NY

$45 - $90/hr

... be applied to and integrated with engineering, scientific, and manufacturing requirements ... avionics, mechanical and electrical systems, weapons armament, commercial and military aircraft ...

SWRI

MANAGER-R&D - Analog Electronics

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Develop and execute a forward-thinking technology roadmap, driving basic and applied research to advance embedded avionics capabilities and position the section for future growth in alignment with ...

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How much do applied avionics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied avionics in the United States is $32.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.64 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are applied avionics?

Applied avionics refers to the practical application of electronic systems used in aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites. Professionals in this field design, develop, test, and maintain systems that control navigation, communication, flight control, and other critical functions. Applied avionics combines knowledge of electronics, software, and aerospace engineering to ensure the safe and efficient operation of airborne vehicles. It is a vital area in both civil and military aviation industries.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Applied Avionics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Applied Avionics often encounter challenges such as integrating new technologies into legacy aircraft systems, ensuring compliance with stringent aviation regulations, and troubleshooting complex electronic and control systems. These challenges can be addressed by staying current with industry standards, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams (including software, hardware, and systems engineers), and participating in ongoing training or certification programs. Effective communication and a strong problem-solving mindset are also crucial for navigating these complexities and ensuring safe, efficient avionics solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Applied Avionics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Applied Avionics Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, systems integration, and avionics principles, usually supported by a degree in electrical or aerospace engineering. Familiarity with avionics testing tools, simulation software, and industry certifications such as DO-178C or ARINC standards is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of critical aircraft systems, directly impacting flight safety and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Applied Avionics vs Avionics Technician?

AspectApplied AvionicsAvionics Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or certification in avionics or electronicsOften requires an FAA certification or equivalent
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and integration in labs or manufacturing facilitiesMaintenance, repair, and troubleshooting on aircraft or systems
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace manufacturing, research, and developmentCommonly employed in airline maintenance, repair stations, and field service

Applied Avionics focuses on designing and developing avionics systems, often involving testing and integration, while Avionics Technicians primarily perform maintenance and repairs on existing systems. Both roles require technical knowledge, but Applied Avionics is more design-oriented, whereas Avionics Technicians are hands-on troubleshooters in operational environments.

More about Applied Avionics jobs
What cities are hiring for Applied Avionics jobs? Cities with the most Applied Avionics job openings:
What job categories do people searching Applied Avionics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Applied Avionics jobs are:
Applied Avionics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Applied Avionics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,721 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
Avionics Engineer

Avionics Engineer

TerraFirma, Inc

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

At TerraFirma, we're redefining how the world moves earth for construction. Founded by former SpaceX engineers and backed by Bain Capital Ventures, TerraFirma is automating construction to make it faster, cheaper, and safer.
Job Overview
You will design and maintain the electrical systems that enable reliable remote operation of construction equipment. This includes wiring harnesses, circuits, and system integration for drive-by-wire machines in rugged outdoor environments. The role is hands-on, spanning fabrication, lab and field troubleshooting, and vendor collaboration to streamline builds.
Responsibilities
  • Engineering Design: Design wiring harnesses, circuits, and systems to enable reliable control of drive-by-wire machinery in high vibration, dirty, outdoor environments
  • DFM/DFT & Serviceability: Drive improvements to designs to simplify builds and installs, reduce wiring ambiguity, add practical test points, and make field service faster and more repeatable
  • Install & Integration Support: Support vehicle builds and retrofits by unblocking installation issues, improving harness routing/packaging, and iterating rapidly based on shop and field feedback
  • Documentation: Eliminate uncertainty through the use of effective documentation practices; create and maintain wiring diagrams, harness drawings, assembly/installation procedures, test procedures, bills of materials, and suitable alternates
  • Fabrication: Assemble and install harnessing and circuits for development testing and use in an operational environment out in the field
  • Debugging, Failure Analysis & Corrective Action: Use measurement equipment to troubleshoot electrical systems on the bench and in the field; own root-cause investigations, implement immediate fixes, and drive sustainable long-term solutions
  • Vendor / Contractor Collaboration: Develop and maintain working relationships with manufacturers to streamline production and improve build and install quality over time

Basic Qualifications
  • B.S. in Electrical or Computer Engineering
  • Practical experience working on electrical systems

Preferred Skills & Experience
  • Circuit design fundamentals and component selection experience
  • Experience designing and qualifying systems for high vibration and/or outdoor environments
  • Experience using electrical measuring equipment (oscilloscope, multimeter, signal analyzer, etc.)
  • Experience building wiring harnesses and assembling circuit boards (preferably to industry or other recognized standards)
  • Strong understanding of "fail-safe" design principles
  • Experience designing, setting up and debugging computer networks (Ethernet, CAN bus, Cellular, WIFI, etc.)
  • Experience creating clear installation/test documentation for technicians and partners (photos, diagrams, checklists, acceptance tests)

Additional Requirements
  • Comfortable with working in a fast-paced startup environment
  • Must be willing to relocate to Austin, TX if not within commuting distance
  • Must be willing to work extended hours or weekends when needed to support critical deadlines

Compensation & Benefits
Base compensation will vary based on factors such as relevant experience and education. Salaries and leveling will be determined on a case-by-case basis if an offer is extended. Our total compensation package also includes equity in TerraFirma. Relocation packages are available to help cover moving costs, if applicable.
Our Story & Mission
At SpaceX, we were part of the teams that built the largest rocket in human history, launched the largest constellation of satellites ever made, and delivered connectivity to millions of people worldwide. What we learned was simple: infrastructure is everything.
At Starbase, the biggest barrier to launching missions to Mars was not building the rocket. It was how slow, expensive, and complex it was to build the infrastructure around it. We lacked buildings, roads, water, power, communications, and waste management, and constructing them took far more time and resources than it should have.
From a first-principles perspective, that doesn't make sense. It shouldn't be this hard or costly to create the foundations for progress. That's when we realized something important: the same engineering mindset that enabled us to tackle space exploration and mass manufacturing could be applied to infrastructure. By bringing the principles of simplification, iteration, acceleration, and automation to construction, we can unlock a new era in how the world builds.
Accelerating infrastructure unlocks progress across every domain, creating a self-sustaining engine for tackling humanity's toughest challenges. The innovations we develop on Earth will lay the groundwork for the technologies that one day make settlement on Mars possible.

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