Lead Aircraft System Integration Engineer

Company Overview:

Beacon AI is a dynamic and innovative aerospace startup dedicated to advancing the future of flight safety and efficiency. We specialize in developing cutting-edge aircraft technologies that push the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and sustainability. Join our team of passionate professionals and be a part of shaping the future of aviation.

About the Role:

As the lead Aircraft System Integration Engineer at Beacon AI, you will play a crucial role in designing, developing, and integrating advanced systems for our next-generation aircraft. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of various systems, optimizing performance, reliability, and safety. This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation in the aviation industry. You will join a diverse team dedicated to making a real-world impact using advanced technologies.

Due to ongoing contracts, applicants must be U.S. Persons (e.g., Citizens or Permanent residents) to meet requirements for International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)-restricted work.

This position requires the successful candidate to work collaboratively with the team in person at our office at least 3 days a week in the San Francisco Bay Area Peninsula.

This position will require travel of up to 25% to various locations mainly in the US to support ongoing and new customer engagements.

What you will do:

• Safely and in accordance with FAA regulations, lead the integration of data acquisition devices, sensors, network components, and other devices into certified and non-certified aircraft.
• Develop requirements and select components for an adaptable system compliant with appropriate FAA and DOD regulations.
• Collaborate with external partners and suppliers to integrate third-party components.
• Extend and mature Hardware In the Loop (HITL) test benches.
• Find, install, and adapt drivers for low-level device integration.
• Write software for FPGAs, single-board computers, and microcontrollers.
• Design and develop enclosures, housings, and retention devices.
• Develop and execute test plans to validate system integration and functionality.
• Identify and troubleshoot integration and boot issues.
• Work closely with software and hardware engineers to achieve seamless integration and reliability of complex systems.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation of integration processes, configurations, test results, and user manuals.
• Contribute to the development of system standard operating procedures.
• Investigate and resolve integration challenges, ensuring compliance with aviation standards and regulations.
• Proactively address potential issues to minimize project delays.
• Help grow a diverse team of creative engineers looking to make a real-world impact.

What will make you successful:

• Proven experience in aircraft system integration, focusing on avionics and software systems.
• Strong knowledge of aerospace standards, regulations, and certification processes.
• Proficiency in relevant tools and software for system integration and testing.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Experience with emerging technologies in the aerospace industry, such as AIDs, FMS integrations, autonomous systems, and high-speed network devices.
• Familiarity with aviation industry-specific software tools and simulation environments.
• Previous experience in a startup or fast-paced environment.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced startup environment with limited guidance and direction.

Bonus Items:

• A passion for aviation.
• An existing Designated Engineering Representative (DER) FAA approval.
• Network engineering and security experience.
• Hardware and software security.
• Experience flying, including the ability to fly aircraft simulators.
• A&P / IA Mechanic Rating.
• Experience managing aircraft (inspections, maintenance, documentation).
• Experience with aircraft autopilot, control surface actuators, and flight management systems.
• Familiarity with aviation RTCA ARINC-429, 825, 834, and standards like DO-178, 160, 254.
• Prior experience in safety-critical software development and coding practices

For many roles, the following may apply. To conform to U.S. Government aerospace technology export regulations (EAR / ITAR), an applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Employer provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, employer complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Employer expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.