Autonomy Systems Architect — Flight Autonomy & Integration

Electra.aero; Manassas (VA); On-site; USD 175,000 - 215,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid winter break

Free on-site parking

Job summary

Electra seeks a highly experienced Autonomy Chief Engineer to lead the design and integration of flight autonomy systems for the EL9 and future products. This role is the primary architect, translating customer use cases into robust, verifiable requirements and architectures.

You will own the development plan, conduct trade studies, guide gate reviews, and collaborate with government certification teams to position the program for FAA and defense airworthiness success.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in flight autonomy or highly automated systems development.
• Ownership of complex autonomous system design and integration.
• Experience with government certification programs (FAA/defense).
• Demonstrated leadership of engineering teams and supplier engagements.

Responsibilities

• Partner with government and program leaders to understand customer needs.
• Develop system requirements and concept of operation.
• Lead supplier engagement and evaluate autonomy components.
• Define autonomy concept of operations, architecture, and integration strategies.
• Lead gate reviews and support certification planning with authorities.

Skills

Flight autonomy experience

Autonomous systems development

Technical leadership

Communication skills

Trade studies

Design reviews

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, Electrical engineering, or related field

Tools

AR P4754B

Job description

Electra seeks a highly experienced Autonomy Chief Engineer to lead the design and integration of flight autonomy systems for the EL9 and future products. This role is the primary architect, translating customer use cases into robust, verifiable requirements and architectures.

You will own the development plan, conduct trade studies, guide gate reviews, and collaborate with government certification teams to position the program for FAA and defense airworthiness success.