Sr. Systems Engineer - Space Technologies

AV is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to join our SpaceTech Division, where we design, develop, and manufacture space-based processing, controls, and electro-optical solutions for customers across the growing space industry.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain Interface Control Specifications for space-based processing, controls, and electro-optical systems
• Lead the development of systems engineering documentation such as System Engineering Management Plans, Initial Capabilities Documents, Requirements Specifications, Interface Control Documents, System Integration Plans, and Test Plans
• Own the requirements generation, analysis, decomposition, and review with customers
• Analyze user’s requirements, concept of operations documents, and high-level system architectures to aid in developing system/subsystem requirements specifications
• Manage system requirements and lead design/development activities
• Develop system architecture and system design documentation
• Communicate with other program personnel, customers, and senior executives
• Support lab and field acceptance testing
• Take responsibility for the technical integrity of work performed and deliverables associated with the Systems Engineering area of responsibility
• Mentor other Systems Engineers to help increase team knowledge and expertise
• Drive division-wide process creation and upkeep
• Integrate between different areas of engineering expertise to support design and development
• Capture design and how it satisfies requirements and test readiness
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics, Computer Science/Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• 8 - 12 years of experience in a systems engineering role (Aerospace systems engineering preferred)
• Experience with tools supporting design, development, modeling, analysis, testing, and delivery of components, assemblies, and systems
• Experience with advanced system engineering tools and software (e.g., CAMEO, Reliance, Python, MATLAB, ANSYS)
• Strong understanding of systems engineering principles and methodologies including PM&P, Mission Assurance verification analyses (e.g., Reliability, Stress Derating, Radiation Effects, etc.)
• Familiarity with industry standards and compliance requirements, including AS9100D
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in systems engineering, space, aerospace, electrical, mechanical, or optical systems
• 10+ years of device engineering experience, preferably encompassing a variety of direct experience across multiple disciplines, such as mechanical, optical, electrical, software, firmware, and controls for space capabilities
• Demonstrated engineering management and team leadership skills, preferably in the execution of programs from inception and scoping through execution and delivery
• Demonstrated success in the development and implementation of Systems Engineering policies, practices, and procedures (e.g., engineering rigor/documentation, MBSE, innovation)
• Current/Active Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility

Physical Demands

• Ability to work in an office and manufacturing environment (Constant)
• Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)

This position requires access to information subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and EAR or be eligible for an export license. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $91,000 - $138,750. AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401K with company matching
• 9/80 work schedule
• Paid holiday shutdown

About the Company

AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.