Avionics Systems Engineer
Location: Newport News, VA
Job Type: Contract
Starting Pay: $60.00/hour (higher pay available based on experience)
Position Overview
We are seeking an Avionics Systems Engineer to support aircraft modification, integration, and certification projects. This role is responsible for developing electrical and avionics engineering documentation, supporting system installations, and ensuring designs meet FAA regulations and aerospace industry standards.
The ideal candidate has experience with aircraft electrical systems, avionics integration, engineering documentation, and certification activities within an aerospace environment.
Responsibilities
Develop engineering designs for aircraft electrical and avionics systems used in modification and repair programs.
Create and maintain electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, installation drawings, cable assembly drawings, and related engineering documentation.
Perform electrical load analysis and evaluate power distribution, grounding, bonding, shielding, and circuit protection.
Support the installation and integration of avionics equipment, communication systems, antennas, sensors, and other aircraft electrical components.
Ensure engineering work complies with FAA regulations, EWIS requirements, and applicable aerospace standards.
Partner with engineering, manufacturing, quality, testing, and certification teams throughout project execution.
Prepare technical reports, compliance documentation, certification packages, and test documentation.
Provide engineering support during fabrication, installation, troubleshooting, testing, and aircraft modification activities.
Participate in design reviews and recommend improvements to system performance, reliability, and maintainability.
Maintain accurate engineering records, revisions, and configuration-controlled documentation.
Contribute to 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.
Strong understanding of aircraft wiring systems, electrical assemblies, power distribution, grounding, bonding, shielding, and circuit protection.
Knowledge of FAA regulations and certification requirements, including Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) programs and/or FAA Form 337 documentation.
Experience creating and interpreting:
- Electrical schematics
- Wiring diagrams
- Installation drawings
- Cable assembly drawings
- Technical engineering documentation
- Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar electrical design software.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Comfortable working in both office and aircraft hangar settings.
- U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status required.
Preferred Qualifications
Five or more years of experience in aircraft modification, avionics integration, or aerospace electrical design.
Experience supporting FAA certification efforts, including STCs and compliance reporting.
Familiarity with EWIS requirements and aircraft wiring installation practices.
Experience performing electrical load analysis and supporting EMI/EMC, grounding, bonding, and system safety activities.
Experience developing engineering reports, installation procedures, test plans, and maintenance documentation.
Knowledge of AS9100 quality standards and engineering configuration management.
Experience supporting aircraft production, installation, modification, ground testing, or flight testing.
Familiarity with SolidWorks, 3D CAD software, or mechanical/electrical integration processes.
Experience working with FAA representatives, suppliers, consultants, or other aerospace stakeholders.
What We're Looking For
Strong attention to detail and commitment to engineering quality.
Ability to deliver compliant, technically sound solutions while meeting project schedules.
Excellent collaboration skills and the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams.
A proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous process improvement.
