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Flight Systems Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Actalent

Founding Flight Software Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$130K - $240K/yr

Founding Flight Software Engineer Company Overview: * We design and deliver resilient, high ... We integrate advanced autonomy, sensing, and control into systems engineered for reliability, speed ...

Astro Mechanica

Flight Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$90K - $160K/yr

In the near term, we are developing adaptable, high-speed systems to close aircraft performance ... Astro Mechanica is seeking a Flight Software Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate ...

Reliable Robotics

Sr. Systems Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$123K - $168K/yr

Responsibilities In your role as Sr. Systems Engineer you will be involved in all system development aspects of our prototypes and certifiable safety critical flight systems. This will involve the ...

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Flight Systems Engineer information

What does a flight systems engineer do?

A Flight Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and maintaining the systems that ensure the safe and efficient operation of aircraft or spacecraft. This includes avionics, propulsion, navigation, communication, and control systems. They work closely with other engineers and teams to integrate various subsystems, troubleshoot issues, and ensure all systems meet safety and regulatory standards. Flight Systems Engineers are crucial in both the development and operation phases, ensuring that vehicles perform reliably throughout their lifecycle.

What are the typical challenges faced by a flight systems engineer when integrating new avionics technology into existing aircraft?

Flight Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new avionics systems and legacy aircraft components, adhering to rigorous safety and certification standards, and managing limited documentation for older systems. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, test engineers, and regulatory authorities—is essential to address these obstacles effectively. Success in this area requires strong problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and clear communication across departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flight systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Flight Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in aerospace engineering, systems analysis, and flight dynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and flight simulation software, as well as knowledge of regulatory standards such as DO-178C, is essential. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and address complex technical challenges. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of flight systems in demanding aerospace environments.

Sr. Flight Test Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.external

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Senior Flight Test Engineer
We are seeking a self-motivated Senior Flight Test Engineer to join our team. The engineer will assist in the multi-functional product development of new designs while collaborating with other engineering disciplines and project personnel. You will play a crucial role in the planning, execution, and analysis of flight tests for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). You will work with cross-functional teams to develop test plans, conduct flight tests, and ensure that UAV systems meet performance, safety, and reliability standards. This position requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, a deep understanding of UAV systems, and experience in flight testing. This role involves working on multiple platforms and vehicles, supporting both ground and flight-testing operations.
Responsibilities and Duties:
  • Provide testing and flight-testing support for company projects.
  • Develop and maintain high-quality testing documentation to include detailed test plans that describe objectives, methodologies, safety protocols, and resource requirements
  • Represent testing interests when collaborating with project teams.
  • Work with design engineers, systems engineers, and software developers to define specific test requirements and procedures and develop engineering test strategies for new and existing products.
  • Collaborate with assembly and engineering personnel to test prototype units and ensure proper execution and documentation.
  • Conduct pre-flight inspections and system checks to ensure the readiness of UAVs for testing.
  • Lead or participate in the execution of flight tests.
  • Monitor and analyze flight data in real-time to ensure the achievement of test objectives.
  • Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies to ensure safe operations.
  • Lead post-test debriefs to identify lessons learned and incorporate them into future testing.
  • Work with field service personnel and engineers to create test procedures addressing specific product issues observed in the field.
  • Act as an engineering interface to resolve production test issues.
  • Train personnel in proper testing techniques.
  • Look for improvements throughout the testing process to reduce costs or improve test coverage.
  • Support the creation of system requirements, trade studies, sub-component, and flight test plans.
  • Coordinate with suppliers, internal and external integrated product teams.
  • Provide manufacturing, component test, and ground/flight test support.
  • Investigate and determine root cause of component failures and recommend corrective actions.
  • Develop engineering drawings, schematics, and design specifications.
  • Ensure circuit protection, isolation, redundancy, and fault tolerance for flight systems.
  • Present results through technical drawings, written reports, and oral presentations to customers and senior project management.
  • Mentor and guide junior flight test engineers

Required Qualifications and Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent.
  • 5-8 years of experience in aerospace engineering, with at least 3-5 years in UAV flight testing or a closely related field. Hands-on experience in planning and conducting flight tests for unmanned systems.
  • Experience with power distribution systems theory, design, test, or analysis.
  • Experience with electric motor and controller/inverter theory, design, test, or analysis.
  • Able to work with high voltage (>500V).
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in flight test software and simulation tools.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Understanding of structures, mechanisms, system layout, materials, and processes.
  • Experience with data collection and reduction software (LabView, MatLab).
  • Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Experience with SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM (or similar).
  • Structural or thermal analysis of structures and systems.
  • Part 107 pilot qualified, or ability to obtain
  • US Citizenship Required.

Desired Qualifications and Skills:
  • Master's degree in Aero or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent and/or 5+ years of experience.
  • Familiarity with electronics testing.
  • Experience with digital communication protocols such as SPI, Ethernet, and CAN bus.
  • Experience in UAS design.
  • Familiarity with Military standards for aircraft design and electromagnetic compatibility.
  • Experience with metallic and composite design and analysis.
  • Experience with design for manufacturing and advanced manufacturing processes.
  • Hands-on experience working with machine shops, integrating prototype designs, and conducting validation tests.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Experience with supplier management and procurement (e.g., SOWs, RFPs, vendor management).
  • Familiarity with Risk Management.
  • Ability to work on DoD projects.

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks:
  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day off.
  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!

Company Overview:
Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.
At ESAero, we don't just build products, we engineer solutions that propel
the aerospace industry forward.
**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**
ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.
E-Verify participation required for employment.
All ESAero positions require US citizenship or US resident status.
Must be able to pass background check and drug screening.
Pay Range: $110-$140k Salary Exempt

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