Engineering Manager- Flight Control System

The Role

Own the end-to-end Flight Control System development for the EL9 aircraft, from preliminary design through certification.
Lead development and validation of system integration, ensuring alignment across actuation, avionics, propulsion, and structures.
Define and execute the certification approach, including functional certification plans, safety assessments (FHA, FMEA, FTA), and compliance artifacts.
Build and lead a high-performing flight controls team, providing technical direction while delivering on program cost, schedule, and milestones.
Oversee system integration, verification, and flight test, ensuring the FCS meets performance, safety, and reliability targets at the aircraft level.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor's degree and 10+ years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive complex programs to execution.
• Familiarity with industry-standard aerospace development and certification practices (e.g., ARP4754A) applied to complex aircraft systems.
• Familiarity with integrated aircraft systems, including actuation, avionics, sensors, and propulsion interfaces.
• Prior involvement in aircraft certification programs, including direct engagement with FAA or equivalent authorities.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Able to balance deep technical involvement with strategic leadership responsibilities.

Bonus Points

• Experience leading flight controls development for novel or highly integrated aircraft configurations (e.g., STOL, eVTOL, hybrid-electric aircraft).
• Experience integrating flight controls with electromechanical actuation systems and power architectures.
• Experience with redundant and fault-tolerant control system architectures.
• Background in supplier management for flight-critical systems.
• Experience building, scaling, and managing high-performing engineering teams, including hiring, mentoring, and driving technical excellence and accountability.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.
• Paid winter break.
• 401(k) with immediate vesting.
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.

Pay

$153,000 – $185,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Schedule

N/A

Benefits

N/A

Skills

N/A

Qualifications

N/A

Location

Manassas, VA