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Avionics Chief Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Space Kinetic

Chief Engineer

El Segundo, CA

The Chief Engineer at Space Kinetic will be a highly experienced and visionary engineering ... avionics, software, payload, etc.) integrate correctly Owns system requirements: flow-down ...

Space Kinetic

Chief Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

The Chief Engineer at Space Kinetic will be a highly experienced and visionary engineering ... avionics, software, payload, etc.) integrate correctly • Owns system requirements: flow-down ...

Space Kinetic

Chief Engineer

El Segundo, CA

The Chief Engineer at Space Kinetic will be a highly experienced and visionary engineering ... avionics, software, payload, etc.) integrate correctly • Owns system requirements: flow-down ...

Stratolaunch

Electrical Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Regular and comprehensive communication to the Avionics Chief Engineer on a weekly and monthly basis * Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems * Demonstrate honesty, responsibility ...

Stratolaunch

Electrical Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Regular and comprehensive communication to the Avionics Chief Engineer on a weekly and monthly basis * Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems * Demonstrate honesty, responsibility ...

Odys Aviation

Avionics Crew Chief

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$30.25 - $39.50/hr

We're a team of expert engineers from deep tech and aerospace that focus on fast iterations loops ... an avionics background to join our team as a Crew Chief. In this role, you will bridge the gap ...

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Avionics Chief Engineer information

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$49K

$111.3K

$169.5K

How much do avionics chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for avionics chief engineer in the United States is $111,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,500.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by an Avionics Chief Engineer when leading multidisciplinary teams?

As an Avionics Chief Engineer, one of the primary challenges is ensuring seamless communication between avionics specialists, software engineers, systems engineers, and other departments. Balancing technical requirements with project timelines and budget constraints often requires proactive problem-solving and negotiation skills. Additionally, staying current with evolving regulations and integrating new technologies can be demanding but is essential for successful project delivery. Building strong collaborative relationships and fostering a culture of innovation within the team are key to overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as an Avionics Chief Engineer, you need deep expertise in avionics systems, electrical engineering, and project management, typically supported by a degree in electrical, electronics, or aerospace engineering and relevant work experience. Familiarity with industry standards, safety regulations, CAD software, and certifications such as FAA DER or equivalent are often required. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help drive cross-functional teams and ensure successful integration and troubleshooting of complex systems. These skills and qualifications are critical for delivering safe, reliable, and innovative avionics solutions in a highly regulated and technologically advanced field.

What is the difference between Avionics Chief Engineer vs Avionics Systems Engineer?

AspectAvionics Chief EngineerAvionics Systems Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in avionics, leadership experienceEngineering degree, specialized in avionics systems, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees entire avionics projects, manages teams, interacts with stakeholdersDesigns and develops avionics systems, collaborates with engineers and suppliers
Industry UsageUsed in senior project management, system integration, and oversight rolesFocused on technical development, system design, and testing

The Avionics Chief Engineer typically holds a leadership role overseeing avionics projects and teams, requiring broader experience and certifications. In contrast, the Avionics Systems Engineer concentrates on designing and developing specific avionics systems. Both roles are essential in the aviation industry but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

What are Avionics Chief Engineers?

Avionics Chief Engineers are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the design, development, integration, and maintenance of electronic systems used in aircraft and spacecraft. They lead multidisciplinary teams to ensure avionics systems such as navigation, communication, and flight control meet regulatory standards and operational requirements. Their role involves project management, technical leadership, safety compliance, and often direct collaboration with clients and regulatory agencies. Avionics Chief Engineers play a critical role in ensuring the reliability and safety of modern aviation technology.
Infographic showing various Avionics Chief Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,304 per year, or $53.5 per hour.
Flight Termination System Engineer

Flight Termination System Engineer

Stratolaunch

Mojave, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a level II, Sr-, or Staff-level Avionics Engineer with emphasis in Flight Termination Systems (FTS) and Autonomous Flight Safety System (AFSS) to support continued technical development of air-launched hypersonic aircraft. This position will also support the efforts to design, integrate, and test the FTS and AFSS in accordance with RCC-319 and RCC-324. Additionally, this position will include working with range safety personnel to coordinate review and approval of various FTS documents. You must be comfortable with component/system development and integration. Candidates must have an aerospace development background and relevant experience in aerospace systems integration.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Support the development, implementation, and subsystem-level testing of the FTS and AFSS
  • Collaborate with range safety to review and approve FTS and AFSS documentation
  • Support design, procurement, and build of AFSS Hardware in the Loop
  • Contribute to flight test planning for integrated (carrier aircraft + pylon + hypersonic vehicle) Stratolaunch missions
  • Collaborate with range safety personnel to develop FTS and AFSS technical requirements
  • Contribute to coordination of range testing
  • Support design reviews throughout vehicle system development
  • Evaluate and determine risks and risk mitigation plans
  • Regular and comprehensive communication to the Avionics Chief Engineer and FTS/AFSS PM on a weekly and monthly basis
  • Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems
  • Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity, and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: electrical engineering, aircraft and/or launch vehicle integration
  • Experience with FTS and/or AFSS (receivers, batteries, safe and arm devices, ordnance, initiators)
  • Experience architecting avionics system design with COTS or in-house hardware
  • Experience working with and tailoring RCC-319 & RCC-324 requirements
  • Experience with Maximum Predicted Environments, Acceptance Testing, and Qualification Testing
  • Experience with technical aerospace leadership, including working with sub-contractors
  • Experience with test planning and execution
  • Experience with risk management
  • Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns
  • Ability to work on their own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals
  • Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoW security clearance

Required Computer Skills:
  • Engineering programming tools (Matlab or equivalent)
  • MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Configuration management systems (Git, Bitbucket, JIRA, or equivalent)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of RF system design including link budgets, antenna design, and antenna placement
  • Knowledge of debris catalogs and how they're used for breakup analysis
  • Experience developing environmental test specifications
  • Experience with max predicted environment instrumentation (accelerometers, thermocouples)
  • Engineering with computing languages & tools (C, C++, AGI STK, HFSS)
  • Experience with government agencies
  • Experience with air-launch programs
  • Experience with aircraft prototype development, including releasing Engineering definition and developing work instructions
  • Security clearance
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Level II ($101,000-$146,500): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Sr Level ($120,500-$158,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Staff Level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
  • Position based in Mojave, CA
  • Travel, as needed, to support the department. Travel estimated to be <10%

Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s):
  • 9/80 schedule
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You're within a half day's drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state's best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke's in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won't find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees' and applicants' time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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