
Lead AFSS Avionics Engineer
1w1 week agoStratolaunch
US · Full-time · $120,500 – $237,200
About this role
Stratolaunch engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+ using air-launched Talon testbeds. These reusable platforms enable routine access to the hypersonic environment and deliver flight data for validating system performance. The Lead AFSS Avionics Engineer leads technical development of air-launched hypersonic aircraft with emphasis on Autonomous Flight Safety System (AFSS) and Flight Termination Systems (FTS).
This role supports design, integration, and testing of AFSS per RCC-319 and RCC-324 standards. Responsibilities include working with range safety personnel for document review and approval. Candidates must handle component and system development and integration in aerospace environments.
Daily work involves leading AFSS and FTS development, hardware-in-the-loop builds, and flight test planning for integrated carrier aircraft missions. Collaboration occurs with avionics chief engineer, FTS/AFSS PM, and cross-functional teams. Regular communication ensures alignment on weekly and monthly progress.
The position offers opportunities to mentor junior engineers, lead cross-functional teams, and contribute to national security innovations. Professionals with aerospace systems integration experience drive rapid technology deployment. Risk evaluation and mitigation support mission success in dynamic priorities.
Requirements
- Knowledge of, and experience with, electrical engineering, aircraft and/or launch vehicle integration
- Experience with FTS and/or AFSS (receivers, batteries, safe and arm devices, ordnance, initiators)
- Experience architecting avionics system design with COTS or in-house hardware
- Experience working with and tailoring RCC-319 & RCC-324 requirements
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior engineers
- Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing technical project milestones
- Experience with test planning and execution
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoW security clearance
Responsibilities
- Lead the development, implementation, and subsystem-level testing of the AFSS and FTS
- Collaborate with range safety to review and approve AFSS and FTS documentation
- Support design, procurement, and build of AFSS Hardware in the Loop
- Contribute to flight test planning for integrated Stratolaunch missions
- Collaborate with range safety personnel to develop AFSS and FTS technical requirements
- Contribute to coordination of range testing
- Support design reviews throughout vehicle system development
- Evaluate and determine risks and risk mitigation plans
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