Lead Avionics Systems Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

International travel opportunities

Medical aid scheme

RETIREMENT FUND

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Avionics Systems Engineer in Pretoria, South Africa to drive design, integration, and testing of advanced avionics for next-generation aircraft. You will lead a multi-disciplinary team and ensure regulatory compliance across DO-178C, DO-254, and MIL-STD frameworks.

On-site role with significant technical leadership responsibilities. The ideal candidate has 8+ years in avionics with 3+ years in leadership, strong expertise in FMS, GPS, INS, radios, displays, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical or Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of avionics systems engineering experience; at least 3 years in lead/supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of avionics subsystems (FMS, GPS, INS, radios, displays, autopilots).
• Experience with systems engineering methodologies and tools; familiar with aviation standards and certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, integration, and validation of complex avionics systems and subsystems.
• Define system architecture, requirements, and ICDs.
• Oversee selection and qualification of avionics hardware/software.
• Mentor a team of avionics engineers; provide technical guidance and oversight.
• Develop and execute test plans for simulation and flight platforms.
• Ensure compliance with aviation standards (DO-178C, DO-254, MIL-STD).
• Collaborate with airframe manufacturers, suppliers, and regulators.
• Analyze performance data, troubleshoot, and implement solutions.
• Prepare design specs, test reports, and user manuals.
• Contribute to proposals and new avionics initiatives.
• Stay updated on emerging avionics technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Education

BEng/BSc in Electrical or Aerospace Eng

MEng/MSc preferred

Tools

Model-based systems engineering

Requirements management

Job description

About the Role Our client, a premier aviation technology firm, is seeking a highly skilled and visionary Lead Avionics Systems Engineer to join their advanced development team in Pretoria, Gauteng . This critical role involves leading the design, integration, and testing of complex avionics systems for next-generation aircraft. You will be responsible for defining system architecture, managing engineering tasks, and ensuring that all avionics components meet stringent performance, safety, and regulatory standards. The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with a proven track record in avionics engineering, possessing strong leadership capabilities and a deep technical expertise in areas such as navigation, communication, flight control, and electronic warfare systems. This is an exceptional opportunity to work at the forefront of aviation innovation, contributing to cutting-edge projects that will define the future of flight. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including software developers, hardware engineers, and test pilots, to bring sophisticated avionic solutions to fruition. The role requires a hands-on approach and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what's possible in aviation electronics. We are committed to providing a challenging yet rewarding career path for our engineers in the vibrant industrial landscape of Pretoria .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, integration, and validation of complex avionics systems and sub-systems.
• Define avionics system architecture, requirements, and interface control documents (ICDs).
• Oversee the selection and qualification of avionics hardware and software components.
• Manage and mentor a team of avionics engineers, providing technical guidance and project oversight.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans and procedures for avionics systems, both in simulation and on flight platforms.
• Ensure compliance with relevant aviation standards and regulations (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254, MIL-STD).
• Collaborate with airframe manufacturers, component suppliers, and regulatory authorities.
• Analyze system performance data, troubleshoot issues, and implement effective solutions.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and user manuals.
• Contribute to proposal development and new business initiatives related to avionics systems.
• Stay abreast of emerging avionics technologies and industry trends.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in avionics systems engineering, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of avionic subsystems such as Flight Management Systems (FMS), GPS, INS, radios, displays, and autopilots.
• Experience with systems engineering methodologies and tools (e.g., requirements management, model-based systems engineering).
• Familiarity with relevant aviation standards and certification processes.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate engineering teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Experience with embedded systems development and testing is a plus.
• Must be a South African citizen or hold appropriate work permits.
• Willingness to work on-site in Pretoria , Gauteng.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid scheme.
• Generous retirement fund.
• Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
• Exposure to cutting-edge aviation technology projects.
• A dynamic and innovative work environment.
• Relocation assistance for exceptional candidates.
• Opportunities for international travel on assignment.