Avionics Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Staff/ Senior Avionics Engineer
About Electra
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, principles, and theories
• Works under general supervision to solve technical problems of moderate scope and complexity
• Executes defined scope of work with growing independence
• Contributes to system integration, supplier coordination, and technical problem-solving

Senior Engineer (8+ years)

• Demonstrates a complete understanding and wide application of engineering principles, theories, and concepts
• Works under limited direction to solve a wide range of complex technical problems
• Independently determines and develops approaches to solutions
• Owns technical scope such as supplier oversight, integration activities, and compliance efforts
• Drives issue resolution and collaborates effectively with minimal guidance

Compensation:
$110,000.00 - $160,000.00 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.
What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 401(k) with immediate vesting
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
• Free on-site parking

Compensation and Benefits
In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.
Working Conditions
Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.
Background & Drug Screening
Successful completion of a background check and/or drug screening prior to starting work may be required for this position.
Commitment
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.
Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.
Electra is an E-Verify employer.