Mission Control Center Lead: Aviation Autonomy Architect

Joby Aviation; California (MO); On-site; USD 198,000 - 309,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

401(k) with company match

RSUs

Job summary

Joby Aviation seeks a Staff/Principal Mission Control Center Lead to serve as the technical authority for the end-to-end MCC architecture and ground-based command-and-control.

You will define system architectures, drive FAA approval strategy, and tackle distributed autonomy challenges with avionics, software, operations, and regulatory teams.

This role demands 10+ years in systems engineering in aviation or safety-critical embedded systems, with FAA certification experience.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in systems engineering, with at least 5 years in aviation or safety-critical embedded systems.
• BS in Aerospace or related field.
• Deep expertise in architecture and safety analysis methods (FHA, FMEA, FTA, STPA) for complex, distributed systems.
• Direct experience with FAA certification processes — BVLOS, Part 135/23/25, or UAS approvals.

Responsibilities

• Architect the end-to-end MCC system, including ground control stations, communications links, data infrastructure, and failover strategies.
• Define redundancy and fault-tolerance requirements across hardware, software, and network layers.
• Develop system-level models and safety analyses to validate airworthiness and safety targets.
• Establish performance SLAs for the MCC platform and lead design reviews.
• Collaborate with avionics and vehicle teams to define the interface between aircraft and ground systems.
• Lead MCC-related regulatory strategy and submissions with the FAA.
• Develop and maintain compliance documentation (MOC, System Safety Assessments, Operational Safety Cases).

Skills

Systems engineering

Aviation experience

Safety analysis

FAA certification

Communication

Education

BS in Aerospace or related field

Job description

Joby Aviation seeks a Staff/Principal Mission Control Center Lead to serve as the technical authority for the end-to-end MCC architecture and ground-based command-and-control.

You will define system architectures, drive FAA approval strategy, and tackle distributed autonomy challenges with avionics, software, operations, and regulatory teams.

This role demands 10+ years in systems engineering in aviation or safety-critical embedded systems, with FAA certification experience.