Senior Engineer, Flight Control Systems

Otto Aerospace is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet focused on sustainability through advanced aerodynamics and composites. They are seeking a Senior Engineer to design, develop, and integrate Flight Control Systems while working collaboratively within a team to create the most efficient aircraft.

Responsibilities:

• Secondary Flight Control System Technical Ownership
• Design, develop, and detail the Secondary Flight Control System in compliance with technical, performance, and regulatory requirements
• Perform trade studies to optimize architecture, function, weight, cost, and manufacturability
• Vendor & Program Coordination
• Lead technical coordination with suppliers for the development of the Secondary Flight Control System through certification and delivery
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for Secondary Flight Control System vendors, ensuring alignment with program requirements, schedules, and certification objectives
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (structures, electrical, avionics, certification, manufacturing, and supply chain) to define and validate all mechanical and electrical interfaces
• Interface Definition & Integration
• Develop and maintain Zonal Reference Models (ZRM), Interface Control Models (ICM), and Interface Control Drawings (ICD) to clearly define interfaces with adjacent structures and systems
• 3D CAD & Digital Definition
• Create and manage experimental and production-level digital product definitions, including parts, assemblies, and installations, fully defining dimensions, materials, processes, and tolerances
• Develop detailed system layouts and airframe integration studies using CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)
• Certification & Compliance Support
• Lead the creation, review, and update of certification, safety, and quality documentation, including FTA, PSSA, SFHA, ACP, and related compliance artifacts for the Secondary Flight Control System
• Ensure Secondary Flight Control System meets applicable Part 23 and ATA 27 regulatory and safety requirements
• Leadership & Mentorship
• Provide technical oversight and mentorship to junior engineers and designers
• Promote best practices in interface control, certification awareness, and supplier coordination
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent
• 7+ years of experience in the development of Flight Control Systems and equipment common in modern Part 23 / Part 25 business aircraft, specifically Secondary Flight Control Systems, including Flaps, Spoilers, HSTA, and Trim
• 5+ years of experience in the design and development of electro-mechanically actuated systems
• Strong knowledge of FAR Part 23 certification requirements and processes pertinent to Flight Control Systems
• Strong understanding and experience with RTCA D-160G, DO-254, and SAE ARP4754A
• Experience with ASME Y14.100 Drawings and Y14.5 GD&T
• Experience with model and drawing checking, engineering part and model release, and engineering change process
• Strong knowledge of industry standards and hands-on experience
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Active Listening: Practice active listening to gain insight and develop a deep understanding of all project stakeholders
• Critical Thinking: Make timely, informed, and value-driven decisions that support project success
• Organization: Maintain strong organization across agendas, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, while clearly communicating tasks, progress, updates, and blockers
• Problem Solving: Evaluate challenges from multiple perspectives and develop effective, well-reasoned solutions
• Self-Motivation: Demonstrate a high level of ownership, commitment, and drive from project initiation through completion
• Teamwork and Team Building: Foster a collaborative environment where diverse personalities and skill sets work effectively toward shared goals and accountability
• Business Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively using appropriate language, tone, and storytelling across emails, chats, reports, presentations, and other channels