Principal Technical Lead Engineer, Rocket Engine Avionics – Control Systems

Role Overview

• Own the avionics and control system technical baseline for the assigned rocket engine program; define and drive the technical vision, architecture, and long-term engineering roadmap for that program’s avionics and control systems
• Lead decomposition and allocation of engine-specific avionics requirements; establish and maintain system-level requirements, interface control documents, and design standards for avionics and engine control subsystems
• Lead all design reviews for the assigned engine avionics systems with full technical approval authority; participate as a non-advocate reviewer for cross-program architectural decisions
• Identify, characterize, and drive resolution of complex system-level technical risks across multiple concurrent development programs
• Provide technical oversight and direction for the integration of avionics hardware, software, control algorithms, sensors, affectors, and harnessing into test facilities and onto rocket engines
• Develop and maintain model-based design frameworks, simulation environments, and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test strategies to accelerate verification and validation
• Collaborate with program leadership, chief engineers, and functional managers to align technical execution with cost, schedule, and mission objectives
• Champion engineering best practices, design criteria, and lessons learned across the ACP organization
• Lead identification, assessment, and mitigation of technical risks across the assigned engine avionics system; drive technology maturation and identify emerging technology opportunities within the engine avionics team
• Mentor and develop engineers at all levels; actively contribute to a culture of technical excellence, psychological safety, and continuous learning
• Support and provide technical oversight during critical test campaigns and flight operations, both on-site and remotely
• Partner with Enterprise functions (Operations, Supply Chain, Mission Assurance) to ensure producibility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of avionics and control system designs

Requirements

• Minimum of a B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or closely related technical field
• 10+ years of experience in avionics systems, control systems, or a closely related engineering field, with demonstrated progression to senior/lead technical roles
• Deep, hands-on expertise in avionics architecture, embedded systems design, and control system development for flight or propulsion applications
• Proven track record of leading complex, cross-functional technical programs or subsystems from concept through qualification and operational deployment
• Strong working knowledge of control theory, digital signal processing, and closed-loop system design for engine or propulsion applications
• Experience defining and managing system-level requirements, interfaces, and verification/validation strategies across hardware and software domains
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence technical teams and stakeholders without direct authority
• Proficiency in model-based design and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink) and scripting languages (Python or equivalent)
• Experience with data communication protocols (e.g., EtherCAT, CAN, SpaceWire, MIL-STD-1553, or similar)
• Demonstrated ability to build trusting and effective working relationships that improve team performance, deliver results, and strengthen our culture of inclusivity
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex technical topics to audiences including senior leadership
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Tech Stack

• Python

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Short and long-term disability
• 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%
• Education Support Program
• Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
• Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays