Aircraft Electrical Engineer (Avionics)
Location: Newport News, VA
Job Type: Contract
Pay: Starting at $60.00/hour (higher based on experience)
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Aircraft Electrical Engineer to support aircraft modification, avionics integration, and certification projects. This role is responsible for designing, analyzing, and documenting electrical and avionics systems while ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and industry standards.
The ideal candidate has experience with aircraft electrical systems, avionics integration, wiring documentation, and certification support within an aerospace environment.
Responsibilities
Design, analyze, and document aircraft electrical and avionics systems for modification and repair programs.
Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, cable assembly drawings, installation drawings, and related engineering documentation.
Perform electrical load analysis and evaluate power distribution, grounding, bonding, shielding, and circuit protection.
Support the integration of avionics, communications equipment, sensors, antennas, and other aircraft electrical systems.
Ensure designs comply with FAA regulations, EWIS requirements, and applicable aerospace standards.
Collaborate with cross-functional engineering, production, quality, and certification teams to support project execution.
Assist with certification documentation, compliance reports, engineering reports, and test plans.
Provide engineering support during fabrication, installation, testing, troubleshooting, and aircraft modification activities.
Participate in design reviews and recommend improvements to system performance, reliability, and maintainability.
Maintain engineering documentation and configuration control.
Support continuous improvement initiatives and engineering best practices.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Experience designing, integrating, troubleshooting, and documenting aircraft electrical or avionics systems.
Knowledge of aircraft wiring, electrical assemblies, power distribution, grounding, bonding, shielding, and circuit protection.
Familiarity with FAA regulations, aircraft certification, STC projects, or FAA Form 337 processes.
Experience creating and interpreting:
- Electrical schematics
- Wiring diagrams
- Installation drawings
- Cable assembly drawings
- Technical documentation
- Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar electrical design software.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable working in both office and aircraft hangar environments.
- U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status required.
Preferred Qualifications
5+ years of experience in aircraft modification, avionics integration, or aerospace electrical system design.
Experience supporting FAA certification programs, including STCs and compliance documentation.
Familiarity with EWIS requirements and aircraft wiring installation best practices.
Experience performing electrical load analyses and supporting EMI/EMC, grounding, bonding, and system safety evaluations.
Experience developing engineering reports, installation instructions, test procedures, and maintenance documentation.
Familiarity with AS9100 quality systems and engineering configuration management.
Experience supporting aircraft production, modification, installation, ground testing, or flight testing.
Experience with SolidWorks, 3D CAD, or mechanical/electrical integration workflows.
Experience working with FAA representatives, engineering consultants, equipment vendors, or aerospace customers.
What You'll Bring
Strong attention to detail and commitment to engineering quality.
Ability to deliver projects on schedule while maintaining regulatory compliance.
Effective communication and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.
A proactive approach to solving technical challenges and supporting continuous improvement.
