Avionics Test Engineer

TL;DR

Avionics Test Engineer (RF/Space): Design and fabricate test hardware, harnessing, and modular test automation software in Linux, Python, C++, Rust for satellite avionics development and production testing with an accent on RF equipment, data acquisition, and integrated subsystem validation. Focus on leading test campaigns, developing simulators for HITL testbeds, and ensuring compliance with SMC-S-016 and MIL-STD-810 standards under space environment constraints.

Location: Los Angeles, CA. Must be a U.S. Person per ITAR regulations

Salary: $100,000 - $150,000 + equity

Company

Building the largest and highest-power satellites for LEO to deep space missions, backed by $450M from leading investors with $500M in contracts.

What you will do

• Design and fabricate test hardware, harnessing, and systems for electrical and RF development testing
• Develop modular, reusable test automation software and drivers in Linux, Python, C++, Rust
• Execute development and production tests, lead satellite subsystem test campaigns from kickoff to reporting
• Build data acquisition, control, and instrumentation systems for integrated level testing
• Own project management of test assets, acceptance testing of flight avionics, and hardware lifecycle upgrades
• Design device simulators for component, subsystem, and HITL testbeds; collaborate on requirements and schedules

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical, computer, or relevant engineering discipline (or equivalent)
• 2+ years experience with test hardware design and software management
• Strong programming in Python, C++, Rust
• Experience with RF test equipment (VNA, spectrum analyzer)
• Experience with data acquisition, controls, dedicated test equipment
• Must be a U.S. Person (citizen, permanent resident, or protected individual) per ITAR

Nice to have

• Familiarity with SMC-S-016 or MIL-STD-810 (vibration, shock, thermal)
• Software-defined radio hardware, high-speed RF data converters, clock trees
• RF equipment calibration, dataflow testing, radiated validation
• Serial/ethernet communications, space electrical failure modes

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits: paid time off, medical/dental/vision, life insurance, paid parental leave
• Equity in the company
• Fast-paced Series C space startup environment
• Encourages non-traditional career paths