Avionics Systems Architect

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United States.

📋 Description

• Take ownership of the avionics architecture.

• Define the complete avionics system, which encompasses mission computers, navigation, communications, surveillance, and payload interfaces. Select network topologies (ARINC 664/AFDX, TSN Ethernet, ARINC 429, CAN, etc.) and establish redundancy, partitioning, and data flows.

• Lead the integration efforts of suppliers and subcontractors.

• Act as the primary technical liaison for avionics vendors and integrators.

• Drive Statements of Work (SOWs), technical requirements, Interface Control Documents (ICDs), and acceptance criteria.

• Review vendor designs, safety documentation, and test outcomes; hold them accountable for cost, schedule, and technical performance.

• Ensure compliance with FAA airworthiness standards.

• Design the system in alignment with ARP 4754A/4761, DO-178C, DO-254, DO-160, and relevant Part 23/25 guidelines.

• Assist in System Safety by developing and maintaining system-level requirements, conducting safety analyses (FHA, PSSA, SSA), and crafting certification plans.

• Drive the verification and validation processes.

• Create system-level test plans, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL)/Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) integration plans, and establish test objectives.

• Collaborate with test and flight teams to diagnose anomalies, identify root causes, and implement corrections back into the architecture.

• Work collaboratively across all levels of the project.

• Partner with Autonomy, Guidance Navigation and Control (GNC), Flight Controls, and Cybersecurity teams to ensure the avionics support robust and resilient autonomous operations.

• Clearly communicate with leadership regarding risks, mitigations, and trade-offs.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.

• Over 8 years of relevant experience in the design and integration of avionics systems on certified aircraft.

• Proven track record in FAA certification processes, including hands-on experience with some combination of:

• • ARP 4754A / ARP 4761
• • DO-178C (software)
• • DO-254 (hardware)
• • DO-160 environmental testing
• • Part 23 or Part 25 certification projects

• Solid understanding of systems engineering principles, including requirements development, ICDs, safety analysis, and verification planning.

• Demonstrated experience integrating avionics Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), networks, and sensors in a laboratory or flight-test setting.

• Proven history of leading and managing subcontractors or vendors, with the capability to provide technical pushback and ensure alignment with mission objectives and timelines.

• Exceptional communication skills; proficient in presenting architectural and certification statuses to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Must be a U.S. Person, eligible to obtain a DoD Secret clearance.

• **Bonus Points**

• Experience with defense-oriented avionics or mission systems (Link-16, SATCOM, tactical radios, radar, EO/IR, etc.).

• Previous involvement in UAS, optionally-piloted, or highly autonomous aircraft.

• Familiarity with GRA, MOSA, or SOSA standards and modular open-systems architectures.

• Experience in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) (SysML, Cameo/MagicDraw) linking avionics design to the broader digital framework.

• FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) and/or E-UM Ticket in relevant Airworthiness Standards.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonuses.

• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Opportunities for professional growth and development.

• Flexible work arrangements and a supportive work environment.