Aircraft Avionics Electrical Engineer
Location: Newport News, VA
Job Type: Contract
Compensation: Starting at $60.00/hour (higher compensation available based on experience)
Position Summary
We are hiring an Aircraft Avionics Electrical Engineer to support aircraft upgrade, modification, integration, and certification efforts. This position focuses on the development and documentation of aircraft electrical and avionics systems, ensuring technical accuracy, regulatory compliance, and successful project execution.
The successful candidate will have hands-on experience with aircraft electrical systems, avionics installations, engineering documentation, and certification-related activities within the aerospace industry.
Key Responsibilities
Create and maintain engineering designs for aircraft electrical and avionics systems associated with modification and repair projects.
Produce technical documentation including electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, installation drawings, cable assembly drawings, and supporting engineering data.
Conduct electrical load analyses and assess power distribution architecture, grounding, bonding, shielding, and circuit protection requirements.
Support integration of avionics equipment, communication systems, antennas, sensors, and related aircraft electrical components.
Verify compliance with FAA regulations, EWIS requirements, and applicable aerospace engineering standards.
Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, quality, testing, and certification teams throughout project lifecycles.
Prepare technical reports, compliance documentation, certification packages, and test-related documentation.
Provide engineering support during fabrication, installation, troubleshooting, testing, and aircraft modification activities.
Participate in technical reviews and contribute recommendations to improve reliability, maintainability, and overall system performance.
Maintain engineering records, revisions, and configuration-controlled documentation.
Support process improvement initiatives and engineering best practices.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering field.
Experience with design, integration, troubleshooting, and documentation of aircraft electrical and/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 processes, including STC programs and/or FAA Form 337 documentation.
Experience developing and interpreting:
Electrical schematics
Wiring diagrams
Installation drawings
Cable assembly drawings
Technical engineering documentation
Proficiency with AutoCAD or comparable electrical design software.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
Effective written and verbal communication abilities.
Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities in a dynamic environment.
Comfortable working in both office and aircraft hangar settings.
U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status required.
Preferred Qualifications
5+ 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 creating engineering reports, installation procedures, test plans, and maintenance documentation.
Knowledge of AS9100 quality standards and engineering configuration management processes.
Experience supporting aircraft production, installation, modification, ground testing, or flight test activities.
Familiarity with SolidWorks, 3D CAD platforms, or mechanical/electrical integration workflows.
Experience coordinating with FAA representatives, equipment suppliers, consultants, or aerospace industry stakeholders.
What You'll Bring
Commitment to engineering excellence and attention to detail.
Ability to deliver technically sound solutions while meeting schedule and compliance requirements.
Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
A proactive, solution-oriented mindset for addressing technical challenges and supporting continuous improvement efforts.
