Otto Aerospace
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Engineer – Test Data & Instrumentation
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Engineer – Test Data & Instrumentation
About Otto Aerospace
OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aerospace is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.
About the Role
Reporting to the Manager–Test Data & Instrumentation, the Test Data & Instrumentation Engineer supports the design, procurement, and use of instrumentation and data acquisition systems for material, structural, mechanical/electrical, and flight testing. This role supports data integrity and system reliability by delivering accurate installation data, acceptance checks, calibration records, and configuration documentation in collaboration with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate demonstrates leadership in communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.
What You’ll Do
- Collaborate with Design Engineering, Test, Quality, and Airworthiness to establish aircraft material, structure, systems, simulator, and flight vehicle test data requirements for development and certification
- Work with Design Engineering and Test teams to define test equipment, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems
- Create and update installation and maintenance design data (drawings, wiring diagrams, channel lists, and work instructions) for test equipment, instrumentation systems, and data acquisition equipment
- Follow established processes, standards, and best practices for the installation and maintenance of instrumentation and data acquisition equipment, and author improvements based on lessons learned
- Support the installation, calibration, and maintenance of instrumentation, data acquisition, and telemetry equipment by preparing documentation, assisting with execution, and tracking calibration status, parameter validity, and hardware/software configurations
- Maintain calibration records and ensure parameter validity across all instrumentation assets throughout each test program
- Maintain configuration control records and documentation for assigned instrumentation and data acquisition equipment during each test program in accordance with company and regulatory standards
- Support instrumentation and data acquisition systems for test articles and flight test aircraft
- Consult on instrumentation and data acquisition system description test plan content
- Support the development and execution of acceptance test procedures for installed instrumentation and data acquisition equipment, documenting results and anomalies
- Support real‑time and post‑test data visualization, validation, and analysis
- Maintain close communication with Engineering and Test teams to ensure effective instrumentation definition, efficient test execution, and proper data capture
- Advise and support instrumentation and data acquisition conducted by third parties
- Participate in instrumentation and data acquisition troubleshooting and root cause investigations by collecting evidence, reproducing issues where feasible, documenting findings, and supporting corrective actions
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to process efficiency, safety, and data quality
- Support offsite operations and flexible scheduling (including nights, weekends, and holidays) when required
Who You Are
Education
- Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field
Experience
- 4+ years progressive, relevant experience in aircraft instrumentation and data acquisition systems
- Understanding of instrumentation principles, aircraft systems, and applicable regulatory frameworks, with demonstrated ability to apply them under guidance
- Proficiency with data acquisition sensors and systems (strain gages, accelerometers, load cells, thermocouples, pressure transducers, RVDTs, string pots, encoders, etc.)
- Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or C++ for data collection and analysis
- Experience with aerospace protocols (ARINC 429/664, CANbus) and telemetry systems
- Familiarity with FAA 14 CFR Part 23/25/27/29 and international certification standards and processes for instrumentation and test data systems
- Experience working in ground and flight test environments supporting experimental aircraft operations and certification
- Experience testing aircraft composite structures and mechanical/electrical systems
- Ability to read, interpret, and create engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, test plans, and technical procedures
- Design and 3D modeling experience with CATIA software is preferred
- Experience with digital signal processing, wireless data transmission systems and protocols for telemetry, line-of-sight and beyond, is a plus
- Experience with EWIS and EMI is a plus
Required Skills
- Active Listening: Strive to gain insight and truly understand all project stakeholders
- Critical Thinking: Make prompt, informed, value-based decisions
- Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, as well as communicating tasks, updates, progress, and blockers
- Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points to formulate the best solution
- Self-Motivation: Demonstrate the highest level of commitment and drive to see projects through
- Teamwork and Team Building: Contribute to a collaborative culture where people with unique personalities and skills work together effectively and hold themselves accountable to shared goals
- Strong Business Communication: Use professional language and tone in all forms of communication
Where You’ll Be
This role will be remote with 25% travel until fourth quarter 2026, at which time it will transition to fully onsite in Jacksonville, FL.
Benefits
Otto Aerospace provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short-term disability, voluntary long-term disability and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.
Otto Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
#LI-Remote
Ready to apply?
Apply to Otto Aerospace
Manager – Test Data & Instrumentation
Share this job
About Otto Aviation
OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aerospace is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.
About the Role
Reporting to the Director–Test & Certification, the Manager–Test Data & Instrumentation is responsible for the strategic leadership, development, and oversight of all instrumentation and test data systems supporting material, structural, mechanical/electrical, and flight testing. This role ensures data integrity, system reliability, and compliance with regulatory requirements, while fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement. The Manager–Test Data & Instrumentation will lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians, collaborating across engineering, test, and certification functions to deliver safe, efficient, and certifiable solutions.
What You’ll Do
- Set strategic direction for instrumentation and test data processes, driving continuous improvement and innovation
- Oversee the definition, installation, and validation of instrumentation and data acquisition systems for all test articles and flight test aircraft
- Lead, mentor, and support a team of engineers and technicians responsible for instrumentation installation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Design Engineering, Flight Test Engineering, Quality, and Certification to define requirements and ensure alignment with program objectives
- Manage sensor installations, cable routing, and interface development for a variety of sensors (strain gages, accelerometers, thermocouples, pressure transducers, etc.)
- Support real-time and post-flight data visualization and analysis, including the development of software tools and workflows
- Oversee configuration control, documentation, and calibration records in accordance with company and regulatory standards
- Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for instrumentation and data acquisition issues, ensuring timely resolution and system readiness
- Advise and support instrumentation and data acquisition conducted by third parties
- Manage Test Data & Instrumentation team member performance, training, and development
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship across the organization
- Forecast technical resources and manage budgets to align with program objectives and organizational growth
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to process efficiency, safety, and data quality
Who You Are
Education
- Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field
Experience
- 15+ years progressive, relevant experience in aircraft instrumentation, data acquisition, and flight test environments, including 5+ years in a leadership capacity
- Deep understanding of instrumentation principles, aircraft systems, and regulatory frameworks
- Experience working with flight test organizations and aircraft certification
- Proven track record with FAA and international certification standards for instrumentation and test data systems
- Significant experience with data acquisition sensors and systems (strain gages, accelerometers, load cells, thermocouples, pressure transducers, RVDTs, string pots, encoders, etc.)
- Experience with digital signal processing and wireless data transmission systems
- Familiarity with data transmission protocols for telemetry, line-of-sight and beyond
- Experience with test facility instrumentation and data acquisition and control systems
- Experience testing aircraft composite structures and mechanical/electrical systems
- Working knowledge of 14 CFR Part 23/25/27/29 certification requirements and processes
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills with a collaborative mindset
- Ability and willingness to work flexible and off-shift hours when business needs dictate
Required Skills
- Active Listening: Strive to gain insight and truly understand all project stakeholders
- Critical Thinking: Make prompt, informed, value-based decisions
- Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, as well as communicating tasks, updates, progress, and blockers
- Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points to formulate the best solution
- Self-Motivation: Demonstrate the highest level of commitment and drive to see projects through
- Teamwork and Team Building: Contribute to a collaborative culture where people with unique personalities and skills work together effectively and hold themselves accountable to shared goals
- Strong Business Communication: Use professional language and tone in all forms of communication
Where You’ll Be
**This role will be remote with 25% travel to our temporary headquarters in Ft Worth until late2026/early 2027, when we are fully set up in our new facility in Jacksonville at which time it will transition to onsite there (relocation provided and timing of move is flexible)**
Benefits
Otto Aerospace provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short-term disability, voluntary long-term disability, and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.
Otto Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
#LI-Remote
Ready to apply?
Apply to Otto Aerospace