BS in Electrical/Computer Engineering and 8+ years in complex embedded systems design and troubleshooting.
Proficient with Altium for multi-layer PCBA layouts and high-speed digital/analog circuit design.
Experience in avionics architecture with a focus on low-noise and high-integrity systems.
Hands-on experience with high-power systems, Battery Management Systems (BMS), and Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs).
Strong background in managing EMI/EMC mitigation and designing for harsh environments.
Deep understanding of lab tools such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers for testing.
Responsibilities
Design and layout high-performance PCBs for various circuit types in aerospace environments.
Architect and integrate avionics into UAS airframes in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
Rapidly prototype and iterate flight hardware to transition from R&D to production.
Troubleshoot hardware-software interactions to resolve complex system faults using lab instruments.
Execute environmental and flight qualification testing to ensure compliance and safety.
Conduct field tests and support live deployments, analyzing telemetry and hardware updates.
Benefits
Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays.
Parental Leave support.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plan.
401(k) plan with company matching contributions.
Fully paid life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and commuter benefits.
Full Job Description
Position Overview:
Are you ready to architect mission-critical flight hardware that shapes global aerospace defense and autonomous aviation? Airo is seeking a high-impact Avionics & Electrical Engineering Lead to spearhead the next generation of advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In this role, you will lead end-to-end electrical architecture, rapid prototyping, and flight-critical systems integration from blank-canvas concept to active field deployment. Working at the intersection of defense modernization and commercial autonomy, you will mentor a fast-growing engineering team in a high-velocity, agile environment. If you thrive on turning ambitious concepts into rugged, mission-ready flight technology, this is your opportunity to define the future of aerial systems.
Key Responsibilities:
Design & Lay Out High-Performance PCBs: Directly execute end-to-end schematic capture and multi-layer PCB design for high-speed digital, analog, power distribution, and RF circuits optimized for SWaP and rugged aerospace conditions.
Architect & Integrate UAS Avionics: Build and integrate flight-critical electrical systems into new airframes, directly interfacing embedded controllers, power systems, propulsion electronics, and sensors alongside mechanical and software teams.
Rapidly Prototype & Iterate Flight Hardware: Build, assemble, and bring up prototype hardware on the bench to accelerate transition cycles from R&D concepts to full-scale production lines.
Troubleshoot at the Hardware-Software Boundary: Isolate and resolve complex system-level faults using hands-on lab instrumentation (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, DMMs) and software/firmware debugging tools.
Execute Environmental & Flight Qualification: Run hands-on testing campaigns-including thermal, vibration, and EMI/EMC validation-to guarantee aerospace compliance, IP-rated environmental sealing, and flight safety.
Conduct Field Tests & Support Live Deployments: Deploy to the field alongside flight operators to execute live system tests, analyze real-time telemetry, and rapidly deliver hardware updates to active UAS platforms.
Qualifications:
BS in Electrical/Computer Engineering with 8+ years designing and troubleshooting complex embedded systems.
Expertise in Altium for multi-layer PCBA layouts, high-speed digital, and mixed-signal circuit design.
Architecture experience with ultra-low-noise avionics and high-integrity payload bus integration.
Hands-on design of high-power systems, Battery Management Systems (BMS), and ESCs.
Proven track record mitigating EMI/EMC and engineering wire harness safety for harsh environments.
Deep proficiency with lab instrumentation (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, probes) and test automation.
Demonstrated success driving rapid R&D prototypes through flight testing and scaled production.
Preferred Qualifications
Proven track record of end-to-end technical ownership and team leadership for complex unit- and subsystem-level payloads or aerospace products.
Experience conducting system-level engineering, SWaP-C trade studies, and requirements allocation for advanced UAS architectures.
Demonstrated experience designing for high-reliability, safety-critical environments involving human-in-the-loop (HITL) operations and fail-safe architectures.
Proficiency in embedded software and firmware development using C/C++ in real-time or embedded Linux environments.
Deep working knowledge of low-level embedded protocols, peripheral interfaces (SPI, I2C, UART, CAN), timers, interrupts, and ADC integration.
Master's degree (MS) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related discipline
SECURITY & COMPLIANCE
Comply with all company information, security policies and procedures
Ensure proper handling and protection of proprietary information
Share information only on a need-to-know basis
Adhere to company non-disclosure requirements
Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit, stand, and/or walk for extended periods
Ability to use hands and fingers for manual dexterity and repetitive tasks
Ability to bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift as required by the position
Ability to safely lift, carry, push, or pull objects within the requirements of the position
Ability to perform the visual, auditory, and communication requirements necessary to perform the essential functions of the position
Ability to work safely in the physical and environmental conditions applicable to the position
Company Benefits
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Holidays
Parental Leave
Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
401(k) with company match
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Commuter Benefits
Basic Life Insurance - fully paid by the company for employees and their dependents
Long-Term Disability Insurance - fully paid by the company
Voluntary Short-Term Disability Insurance
Supplemental Life Insurance options
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the employee may also be asked to perform other reasonably related job duties as assigned by their immediate supervisor as required. All employees may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.
