Lead Aeronautical Systems Integration Specialist

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Private healthcare

Retirement annuities

Life assurance

Professional growth opportunities

International conferences

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Lead Aeronautical Systems Integration Specialist to oversee avionic and aeronautical system integration onto aircraft platforms. This senior role drives innovation and ensures seamless functionality across complex avionics.

You will lead a team of engineers, shape system architecture, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver on challenging aerospace projects while staying ahead of industry trends in Cape Town.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aeronautical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 10+ years in aeronautical systems design and integration with avionic systems.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing engineering teams and projects.
• Expertise in systems engineering methodologies including requirements management, interface control, and verification & validation.
• Familiarity with aerospace standards (DO-178C, DO-254) and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with ability to influence stakeholders.
• Experience with simulation and modeling tools for system integration analysis.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment in Cape Town.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of complex aeronautical systems including avionic, communication, navigation, and flight control systems.
• Define system architecture, interfaces, and requirements for new aircraft programs.
• Oversee system testing, validation, and verification to ensure performance specifications and safety standards.
• Manage a team of systems engineers, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance management.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure successful system integration.
• Develop and maintain system integration plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex integration issues during development, testing, and operation.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in aeronautical systems and integration techniques.
• Prepare and present technical reports and recommendations to senior management and project stakeholders in Cape Town.

Skills

Aerospace systems integration

Systems engineering leadership

Avionics expertise

DO-178C knowledge

DO-254 knowledge

Education

Master's or PhD in Aeronautical Engineering

Tools

Simulation & modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the aerospace industry, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Aeronautical Systems Integration Specialist to be based in Cape Town. This senior position involves overseeing the integration of complex avionic and aeronautical systems onto new and existing aircraft platforms. You will be instrumental in driving innovation and ensuring seamless functionality of integrated systems, contributing to cutting‑edge aviation projects. This role offers a unique opportunity to work on challenging projects within a collaborative and forward‑thinking environment in Cape Town, shaping the future of flight technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of complex aeronautical systems, including avionic, communication, navigation, and flight control systems.
• Define system architecture, interfaces, and requirements for new aircraft programs.
• Oversee system testing, validation, and verification activities to ensure compliance with performance specifications and safety standards.
• Manage a team of systems engineers, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance management.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and flight test, to ensure successful system integration.
• Develop and maintain system integration plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex integration issues encountered during development, testing, and operational phases.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and industry trends in aeronautical systems and integration techniques.
• Prepare and present technical reports and recommendations to senior management and project stakeholders in Cape Town.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aeronautical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience (10+ years) in aeronautical systems design and integration, with a strong understanding of avionic systems.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, managing engineering teams and projects.
• Expertise in systems engineering methodologies, including requirements management, interface control, and verification & validation.
• Familiarity with aerospace standards (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254) and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Experience with simulation and modeling tools for system integration analysis.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment in Cape Town.

Benefits

• This role comes with a highly competitive salary package and performance‑based bonuses.
• Our client provides an exceptional benefits program, including comprehensive private healthcare, retirement annuities, and life assurance.
• Extensive opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training, certifications, and international conferences, are available.
• Employees also enjoy generous paid time off and a stimulating work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in Cape Town.