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Chief Aircraft System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Natilus

Aircraft Subsystems Engineering Lead

San Diego, CA · On-site

$170K - $195K/yr

Communicate and collaborate closely with the executive team including CEO and Head of Engineering ... Minimum of 10 years of experience as a systems engineer or in a closely related role * Bachelor of ...

Natilus

Aircraft Subsystems Engineering Lead

San Diego, CA · On-site

$170K - $195K/yr

Communicate and collaborate closely with the executive team including CEO and Head of Engineering ... Minimum of 10 years of experience as a systems engineer or in a closely related role * Bachelor of ...

Natilus

Aircraft Subsystems Engineering Lead

San Diego, CA · On-site

$170K - $195K/yr

Communicate and collaborate closely with the executive team including CEO and Head of Engineering ... Minimum of 10 years of experience as a systems engineer or in a closely related role * Bachelor of ...

Stratolaunch

Carrier Aircraft Chief Engineer

Mojave, CA · Hybrid

... Chief Engineer to be the technical owner of our growing fleet of launch platform aircraft, which ... Apply Systems Engineering principles to control scope, manage risk, and drive quality technical ...

Stratolaunch

Carrier Aircraft Chief Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

... Chief Engineer to be the technical owner of our growing fleet of launch platform aircraft, which ... Apply Systems Engineering principles to control scope, manage risk, and drive quality technical ...

Zone 5 Technologies

Chief Engineer

Fort Worth, TX

Zone 5 is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next-generation ... Oversee integration with aircraft systems including mechanical interfaces, communication links, and ...

Seeds of Creation

Aircraft Mechanic Crew Chief

Blaine, MN · On-site

$29.75 - $39/hr

Signing bonus Crew Chief - Aircraft Maintenance Technician (A&P) - General Aviation This job ... Our mechanics handle diverse projects with support from in-house upholstery and engineering teams.

Zone 5 Technologies

Chief Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

Zone 5 is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next-generation ... Oversee integration with aircraft systems including mechanical interfaces, communication links, and ...

Maple Aviation

Chief Engineer - Drone and Delivery SystemThe Role We are an innovative aerospace startup seeking a ... In this role, you will be the technical owner of the complete aircraft and delivery system. You ...

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All JobsChief Aircraft System Engineer Jobs

Chief Aircraft System Engineer information

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How much do chief aircraft system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief aircraft system engineer in the United States is $92,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief aircraft system engineer do?

A Chief Aircraft System Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design, integration, and performance of all systems within an aircraft, including avionics, propulsion, hydraulics, and electrical systems. They lead engineering teams, ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and coordinate with other departments to address technical challenges. Their role is critical to ensuring that all aircraft systems operate safely, efficiently, and reliably throughout the development and operational lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief aircraft system engineer?

To thrive as a Chief Aircraft System Engineer, you need deep expertise in aerospace engineering principles, systems integration, and project management, typically supported by an engineering degree and extensive industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software, systems modeling tools, and regulatory frameworks like FAA or EASA certification is crucial. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for guiding multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative development of aircraft systems while meeting stringent regulatory and performance standards.

What are some common challenges faced by chief aircraft system engineers when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?

Chief Aircraft System Engineers often encounter challenges in aligning the goals and timelines of various engineering disciplines, such as avionics, propulsion, and structural teams. Effective communication and robust project management are essential to ensure all subsystems integrate seamlessly and meet regulatory requirements. Additionally, balancing innovative solutions with strict safety standards and budget constraints can be demanding. Building strong relationships across departments and fostering a collaborative environment are key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Aircraft System Engineer jobs?

For Chief Aircraft System Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chief Aircraft System Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Aircraft Subsystems Engineering Lead

San Diego, CA • On-site

Natilus
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Natilusexternal

$170K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Natilus is building the next generation of aviation through the development of blended-wing-body aircraft, delivering a step-change in overall efficiency. Our growing family of aircraft is designed to make air travel more sustainable while fundamentally improving the economics of commercial flight and the operational effectiveness of defense logistics.

By combining advanced aerodynamics with innovative design, Natilus aircraft achieve exceptional fuel efficiency, increased payload capacity, and seamless compatibility with existing airport infrastructure. With hundreds of aircraft valued in the billions of dollars already on order, we are redefining how aircraft are designed, built, and operated, representing a meaningful evolution in modern aviation

Work Summary:

Natilus is seeking a Aircraft Subsystems Engineering Lead to join our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will contribute and lead end-to-end systems development, including requirements definition, system architecture, and technical integration across all subsystems including flight control mechanisms, propulsion, avionics, electrical and fuel systems. This role oversees trade studies, interface control, compliance, and scheduling, while providing technical leadership and mentorship to engineering team.

Main Responsibilities:

  • Applies technical knowledge to the aircraft systems design from concept through first flight
  • Provide technical leadership and oversight for the Kona systems design team
  • Assign work, set priorities, and mentor engineers to ensure timely, high-quality execution
  • Communicate and collaborate closely with the executive team including CEO and Head of Engineering
  • Manage engineering deliverables, identify issues, and drive corrective actions as needed
  • Lead and contribute to aircraft system design and analysis from concept through production, including propulsion, fuel, electrical, avionics, and flight controls

Requirements

  • Minimum of 10  years of experience as a systems engineer or in a closely related role
  • Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
  • Strong foundational understanding of aircraft systems
  • Familiarity with FAA Part 23 and 25 requirements
  • Experience with aircraft systems test planning and execution
  • Experience with turboprop powerplant installation design
  • Familiarity with composite airframe design and integration
  • Proficiency with NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks
  • Experience with rapid prototype aircraft programs from conceptual and preliminary design through build

Desired Experience:

  • Kickoff through production program experience
  • Rapid prototype program experience
  • Hands-on build experience

Core Behaviors:

  • Build trust through ownership, transparency, and follow-through
  • Communicates clearly, directly, and respectfully across teams
  • Lead by example and model expected behaviors
  • Ability to give and receive direct, constructive feedback
  • Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with evolving priorities

Travel Requirements:

Occasional travel and on-site work at the local hangar may be required

Compensation:

The expected salary range for this position is $170,000 to $195,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and business needs.

Benefits

Health Care Plan (Medica, Dental, Vision)
Retirement Plan - 401k
Unlimited PTO
Onsite Gym Access

Natilus Inc. hires solely based on qualifications, merit and competence. Natilus Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Natilus Inc. does not hire on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

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About Natilus

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Richmond, CA, US

Year founded

2014

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