Senior Avionics Test Engineer

About the position

As a Senior Avionics Test Engineer at Varda, you will play a pivotal role in the design and operation of critical systems that simulate and stress-test flight hardware to ensure it is ready for its trip to space. Your responsibilities will include crafting and testing sophisticated hardware, ensuring systems can withstand the rigors of space travel and re-entry, and supporting ambitious projects aimed at exploring pharmaceutical production in space. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to technologies that are defining the future of space exploration and making an impact that reaches far beyond the stars.

Responsibilities

• Design HITL Testbeds: Design, build, and operate the Hardware In The Loop (HITL) testbeds, simulating the spacecraft on the ground to ensure all systems are mission-ready.
• Develop Component Level Testbeds: Collaborate with component Responsible Engineers (REs) to identify test cases and develop innovative testing strategies to ensure avionics products meet their intended performance standards across extreme conditions.
• Deliver Flight Vehicle Testbeds: Take ownership of avionics ground infrastructure, supporting the design and integration of test racks and R&D equipment used to power and communicate with the flight vehicles.
• Support and Optimize: Participate in architecture trade studies, provide valuable design feedback, and drive improvements for better testability and manufacturability.
• Develop Test Programs: Craft comprehensive test plans for flight hardware, manage and conduct qualification, acceptance, and proto-flight tests.
• Enhance Processes: Contribute to developing engineering best practices, focusing on increased test automation and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot & Resolve Issues: Analyze electrical systems, offer solutions, and push components to exceed expectations in demanding environments like thermal and vibe tests.
• Mentor and Train: Draw from your experiences to help mentor and train new engineers, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement within the team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in system validation, component testing, or test software development.
• Proficiency in programming and debugging with Python.
• Experience with power supplies, modular DAQ systems, RTD and 4-20mA devices, and general test equipment.

Nice-to-haves

• Prior experience standing up HITL testbeds, managing configuration control, and driving and operating system-level tests.
• Familiarity with Unix environments.
• Experience developing test cases and test equipment to meet vehicle operating conditions.
• Experience operating environmental test equipment (vibration shakers, TVAC chambers, or thermal chambers).
• Strong project or program management skills.
• Thrive in a dynamic work environment that values teamwork, innovation, and tackling challenges head-on.

Benefits

• Exciting team of professionals at the top of their field working by your side
• Working in El Segundo, CA - an awesome Southern California beach city with quick access to entertainment and outdoor activities
• Equity in a fully funded space startup with potential for significant growth (interns excluded)
• 401(k) matching (interns excluded)
• Unlimited PTO (interns excluded)
• Health insurance, including Vision and Dental
• Lunch and snacks provided on site every day. Dinners provided twice a week.
• Maternity / Paternity leave (interns excluded)