Lead Avionics Engineer

Lead Avionics Engineer

Location: Hawthorne, California, United States
Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Package: $130K – $180K Base + Equity + Benefits + Flexible PTO

Are you an avionics engineer ready to own flight-critical systems that will power the next generation of off-world missions? This is your chance to design, integrate, and qualify spacecraft electronics that will operate autonomously on the Moon and Mars.

You’ll join a pioneering startup developing a full-stack system for lunar propellant production, from excavation through to refueling landers – a mission-critical step in making humanity a multi-planet species. In this leadership role, you’ll guide the architecture, design, and test of avionics, power, and control systems, translating bold concepts into flight-ready hardware.

This role suits an engineer with broad spacecraft avionics experience, strong PCB design capability, and a track record of delivering radiation-tolerant, cost-efficient electronics for space environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, design, and integration of spacecraft avionics systems, including power distribution, command and data handling, and communication interfaces.
• Prototype and validate PCBAs for motion control, power regulation, and sensor integration.
• Define system requirements and interface control documents (ICDs), performing trade studies and design reviews across hardware and software disciplines.
• Oversee hardware manufacturing, testing, and qualification to aerospace standards (e.g. NASA SMC-S-016).
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, software, and GNC teams to ensure seamless system integration.
• Drive cost and performance optimization, identifying low BOM-cost solutions suitable for deep-space missions.
• Build and mentor a high-performing avionics team, fostering rapid iteration and technical excellence.
• Develop test infrastructure, including harnessing, fixtures, and custom ground support hardware.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Avionics, or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years’ experience in spacecraft avionics design and integration, with hands-on PCB development.
• Proven ability to own hardware from concept through qualification and flight.
• Strong understanding of embedded systems, power electronics, and communication buses (CAN, RS-422, SpaceWire, Ethernet).
• Experience with radiation-tolerant design and component up-screening for space.
• Capable of leading cross-functional reviews and coordinating system-level verification.
• Must meet ITAR/EAR requirements (U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, Refugee, or Asylee).

If you’re ready to lead avionics design for lunar and Martian missions, apply now or send your resume to jake.payne@newspacetechnical.com