Senior Software Developer In Test Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $81,397.00 to $93,600.00 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

SUMMARY

The Senior Electrical Engineering Specialist is an advanced technical specialist responsible for owning complex electrical builds, subsystem integration, and electrical test execution for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This role operates with minimal supervision and serves as a subject-matter expert for electrical assembly, integration, and troubleshooting within engineering development environments.

The Senior Electrical Engineering Specialist leads non-routine electrical work, resolves complex electrical issues, mentors junior specialists, and partners closely with electrical and systems engineers to improve reliability, testability, and integration quality. This role represents a fully qualified senior technical contributor with measurable impact on program execution and product performance.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Own and execute complex electrical assemblies, harnesses, and subsystem integrations for UAS platforms.
• Lead electrical integration activities for prototype and test articles, including routing, grounding, shielding, and strain relief.
• Execute and oversee advanced electrical test activities, including subsystem bring-up, fault isolation, and signal verification.
• Diagnose and resolve complex electrical issues such as intermittent faults, signal integrity problems, power distribution issues, or integration conflicts.
• Collaborate with electrical engineers to influence schematic design, connector selection, harness architecture, and integration strategy.
• Create, update, and maintain electrical build documentation, wiring diagrams, and test procedures.
• Review electrical drawings and documentation for clarity, accuracy, and manufacturability.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to Associate (I) and Electrical Specialist II team members.
• Establish and reinforce electrical workmanship, safety, and ESD standards within the lab environment.
• Support design reviews, test readiness activities, and failure investigations.
• Document build results, test findings, deviations, and corrective actions.
• Assumes all other responsibilities as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

The following are a non-exhaustive list of qualifications for the position:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Advanced technical coursework or equivalent hands-on experience in electrical systems, avionics, or electronics.
• 5–8 years of progressive experience in electrical assembly, avionics, embedded electronics, or aerospace development environments.
• Demonstrated experience owning electrical integration and test activities for complex systems.
• Expert understanding of electrical systems, wiring practices, grounding, and shielding.
• Strong proficiency reading and applying electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and test documentation.
• Experience using advanced test equipment (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, programmable power supplies).
• Familiarity with signal integrity, EMI/EMC considerations, and power distribution systems.
• Advanced troubleshooting and root-cause analysis capability.
• High level of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong communication skills across engineering, test, and production teams.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor others and raise overall team capability.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• AA degree or higher in Electrical Technology, Electronics Technology, Avionics, or related fields.
• Experience supporting UAS, aerospace, or defense programs through development and test phases.
• Prior involvement in design reviews, environmental testing, or flight test campaigns.
• Experience contributing to harness architecture decisions or electrical system trade studies.
• Familiarity with documentation standards and configuration control processes.
• Recognized technical go-to within the electrical discipline.
• Continuous-improvement mindset with the ability to influence processes and standards.

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan
• Employee Stock Purchasing Program (ESPP)

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.