Senior Avionics EngineerPlaya Vista, California, United StatesTurning Space into a Transportation Layer for EarthEras of humanity can often be defined by a dominant transportation mode - horse drawn chariots, ocean going boats, or aircraft. These were spurred by a small group of people rigorously focused on building technology to achieve faster access to more of the world. We seek to usher in a new era of humanity defined by universal access to the whole globe free of borders and the presence of a routine way from space to Earth. To do this, we are building highly maneuverable re-entry vehicles that can loiter in orbit before precision landing back on Earth.What You'll Do:As a Senior Avionics Engineer, you will be personally responsible for the architecture and implementation of the core avionics elements for Inversion's next-generation vehicles. This position requires a highly motivated engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment and can execute with autonomy.
You will help define the foundation of Inversion's avionics architecture while setting the technical standards for future team growth. You will be a key member of the Avionics team, reporting directly to the Director of Engineering, Avionics. Our engineers are responsible for the complete lifecycle of the hardware they create, including development, testing, and integration.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Develop complete avionics systems, including architecture, design, integration, and verification, from initial concept through delivery of qualified hardwareLead the technical execution of avionics hardware builds, including PCB design, harnessing, embedded systems, and environmental qualificationCollaborate with propulsion, guidance and control, thermal and software teams to ensure seamless integration and performance of avionics systemsDevelop, lead, and own digital, analog, and mixed-signal circuit board designsImplement robust design and test processes that ensure reliability and safety of your designsQualify your designs through environmental testing including vibration, shock, TCYC, and TVAC testingCoordinate with suppliers and internal stakeholders to manage component selection, testing, and delivery schedulesLead and present trade studies to shape the architecture and designMaintain accurate design documentation, test plans, and reports, demonstrating strong communication and organizational skillsContribute to flight software architecture designRequired Qualifications:Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government Secret/Top Secret security clearance.Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related fieldTypically, 5+ years of professional experience in the design, build, and test cycle for satellite and spacecraft flight computer hardwareProficiency executing thorough mixed-signal and digital circuit simulationsDemonstrated ability designing PCBAs using Altium Designer or other board design softwareHands-on work implementing mixed-signal PCBs with digital communications (UART, I2C, SPI, RS422, RS485, CAN, PCIe, Ethernet, etc.)Background in fault-tolerant and failover-capable electronics designProven ability designing test systems and developing test plans for multidisciplinary systemsStrong understanding of requirements, systems design, and test methods for space, launch, and/or reentry environments including thermal, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC, and radiationProficient using common laboratory equipment such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies, spectrum analyzers, and data acquisition systemsProven track record of delivering high-visibility designs resulting from rigorous methodologyDesired Qualifications:Background in high-reliability and/or safety-critical systems for spacecraft or automotive applicationsKnowledge of radiation-hardened or rad-tolerant system designDemonstrated ability implementing advanced microprocessors and support structures, including DRAM, power distribution, NAND flash, and other peripheralsUnderstanding of unique design requirements for long-duration orbital missionsKnowledge of common spacecraft ADCS sensors and propulsion components (star trackers, reaction wheels, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), pressure transducers, solenoid valves, etc.)Experience with video system development and integrationProficiency with software and scripting languages such as C/C++, Python, or RustProficiency with RTL languages such as VHDL or VerilogPrior work in startups and small independent teamsOur office headquarters is located in Playa Vista, CA. This position requires in-office presence.The California annual base salary for this role is currently $137,000-$193,000.
Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.ITAR Compliance: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S.
Department of State. Equal Employment Opportunity: Inversion provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Inversion collects and processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws.