Flight Test Engineer Job Summary:We are seeking a self-motivated Flight Test Engineer to join our team. The engineer will assist in the multi-functional product development of new designs while collaborating with other engineering disciplines and project personnel. The role involves working on multiple platforms and vehicles, supporting both ground and flight-testing operations.
Responsibilities and Duties:- Provide testing and flight-testing support for company projects.
- Develop and maintain high-quality testing documentation.
- Represent testing interests when collaborating with project teams.
- Work with design engineers to develop engineering test strategies and specific test procedures for new and existing products.
- Collaborate with assembly and engineering personnel to test prototype units and ensure proper execution and documentation.
- Work with field service personnel and engineers to create test procedures addressing specific product issues observed in the field.
- Act as an engineering interface to resolve production test issues.
- Train personnel in proper testing techniques.
- Look for improvements throughout the testing process to reduce costs or improve test coverage.
- Support the creation of system requirements, trade studies, sub-component, and flight test plans.
- Coordinate with suppliers, internal and external integrated product teams.
- Provide manufacturing, component test, and ground/flight test support.
- Investigate and determine root cause of component failures and recommend corrective actions.
- Develop engineering drawings, schematics, and design specifications.
- Ensure circuit protection, isolation, redundancy, and fault tolerance for flight systems.
- Present results through technical drawings, written reports, and oral presentations to customers and senior project management.
Required Qualifications and Skills: - Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent.
- 2-5 years of relevant engineering experience.
- Hands-on experience in a testing environment.
- Experience with power distribution systems theory, design, test, or analysis.
- Experience with electric motor and controller/inverter theory, design, test, or analysis.
- Able to work with high voltage (>500V).
- Understanding of structures, mechanisms, system layout, materials, and processes.
- Experience with data collection and reduction software (LabView, MatLab).
- Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Experience with SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM (or similar).
- Structural or thermal analysis of structures and systems.
Desired Qualifications and Skills: - Master's degree in Aero or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent and/or 5+ years of experience.
- Familiarity with electronics testing.
- Experience with digital communication protocols such as SPI, Ethernet, and CAN bus.
- Experience in UAS design.
- Familiarity with Military standards for aircraft design and electromagnetic compatibility.
- Experience with metallic and composite design and analysis.
- Experience with design for manufacturing and advanced manufacturing processes.
- Hands-on experience working with machine shops, integrating prototype designs, and conducting validation tests.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Experience with supplier management and procurement (e.g., SOWs, RFPs, vendor management).
- Familiarity with Risk Management.
- Ability to work on DoD projects.
Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: - Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
- Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day off.
- Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
- Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
- Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
- Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
- Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
- Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
- Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!
**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**
Pay Range: $71k-100k Salary Exempt
