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6 Avionics Engineer Job Description Templates and Examples

Avionics Engineers specialize in the design, development, testing, and maintenance of electronic systems used in aircraft, spacecraft, and satellites. They work on systems such as navigation, communication, and flight control, ensuring they meet safety and performance standards. Junior engineers typically focus on specific tasks under supervision, while senior engineers lead projects, mentor teams, and contribute to strategic planning and innovation in avionics technology.

1. Junior Avionics Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

[$COMPANY_NAME] is hiring a Junior Avionics Engineer to join a multidisciplinary team responsible for development, integration, verification, and sustainment of flight-critical avionics subsystems. In this entry-level engineering position you will execute component-level development tasks, support system integration and test, and contribute to certification artifacts under the mentorship of senior engineers. This role offers hands-on exposure to embedded software, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testbeds, avionics data buses (e.g., ARINC 429, ARINC 664/AFDX, MIL-STD-1553), RTOS-based flight software, and safety-certification processes (DO-178C/ED-12C). The position is based onsite in [$COMPANY_LOCATION] and is targeted at early-career engineers seeking a structured path to increased technical responsibility and systems engineering ownership.

Responsibilities

  • Implement and unit-test embedded software components in C/C++ for avionics line-replaceable units (LRUs) under senior engineer guidance
  • Develop and maintain hardware interfaces, including FPGA firmware support and low-level device driver integration
  • Execute integration and verification activities on HIL and bench-test systems, exercising avionics data buses (ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, CAN, Ethernet/UDP/TCP)
  • Create and update test plans, test cases, and traceability matrices to support DO-178C/DO-254 compliance
  • Instrument and debug systems using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, JTAG/SWD debuggers, and protocol analyzers; collect reproducible failure cases for senior engineers
  • Contribute to requirements decomposition, change requests, and non-conformance reports; document design rationale in engineering change documents
  • Participate in design reviews, peer code reviews, and daily stand-ups; escalate risks and propose mitigation strategies
  • Support lab setup, build automation, and CI tasks (Jenkins/GitLab CI) for embedded targets

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
  • 0–2 years of experience in embedded systems development or avionics engineering (internships and co-ops count)
  • Proficiency in C and C++ for embedded targets; familiarity with build systems (Make, CMake) and cross-compilation toolchains
  • Hands-on experience with microcontrollers or embedded SOCs and basic electronics lab practice (soldering, bench measurement)
  • Familiarity with basic avionics data buses (ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, CAN, Ethernet) or demonstrated ability to learn protocol stacks quickly
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and experience using debuggers, serial consoles, and logging to isolate faults
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills and ability to produce engineering documentation

Preferred:

  • Experience with RTOS (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, RTEMS) and real-time scheduling concepts
  • Familiarity with DO-178C/DO-254 processes, certification artifacts, and requirements traceability
  • Exposure to MATLAB/Simulink model-based development and basic signal processing
  • Experience with Git, CI/CD for embedded systems, and automated test frameworks
  • Prior work with FPGA toolchains (VHDL/Verilog) or familiarity with hardware description languages
  • Security and safety mindset with experience in failure mode analysis (FMEA) or similar methods

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Embedded software development: C, C++, cross-compilers, toolchains
  • Real-time systems and RTOS concepts; deterministic scheduling and interrupt handling
  • Avionics buses and protocols: ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 664/AFDX, CAN, Ethernet
  • Hardware debugging: oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, multimeters, JTAG/SWD
  • Firmware and low-level drivers; familiarity with bootloaders and BSPs
  • Model-based tools: MATLAB/Simulink (preferred)
  • Version control and CI: Git, Jenkins/GitLab CI, artifact management
  • Certification artifacts and processes: DO-178C/DO-254 traceability, test reports

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and fast learning cadence in complex technical domains
  • Collaborative communicator with experience working in interdisciplinary teams (software, hardware, systems, test)
  • Detail-oriented with a disciplined approach to documentation, reproducibility, and configuration management
  • Comfortable receiving and acting on technical mentorship; proactive in asking clarifying questions
  • Accountability for deliverables and aptitude for risk identification and mitigation
  • Growth mindset: ambition to progress toward Systems Engineer or Avionics Lead roles

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with employer match or local equivalent retirement benefits
  • Generous paid time off, paid parental leave, and paid volunteer days
  • Professional development stipend, conference budget, and support for certification training (DO-178C, RTCA)
  • Onsite engineering labs, maker spaces, and mentorship from experienced avionics architects
  • Commuter benefits, relocation assistance for qualified candidates, and employee assistance programs

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Location

This role is onsite at our engineering facility in [$COMPANY_LOCATION]. Candidates must be able to work from the facility to access labs, test equipment, and security-restricted systems.

How to Apply

We encourage applicants to apply even if you do not meet every listed requirement—strong potential, relevant internships, project experience, and a demonstrated ability to learn quickly are valued. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter describing your hands-on experience with embedded systems, avionics protocols, or relevant projects. Applicants with questions about accessibility or reasonable accommodations during the interview process should contact our recruiting team.

2. Avionics Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Avionics Engineer to join our innovative team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, development, and testing of advanced avionics systems that enhance the safety and performance of our aerospace products. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate avionics systems into aircraft and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop avionics systems, including flight control systems, navigation systems, and communication systems
  • Conduct system-level testing and validation of avionics components to ensure performance and reliability
  • Collaborate closely with software engineers to integrate software and hardware components effectively
  • Prepare technical documentation, including design specifications, test plans, and compliance reports
  • Participate in design reviews and provide technical insights to drive product improvements
  • Support troubleshooting and resolution of avionics-related issues during testing and operational phases

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in avionics design and development
  • Proven experience with DO-178C or equivalent certification processes
  • Strong understanding of avionics architecture and integration principles

Preferred:

  • Master's degree in a relevant field
  • Experience with flight control systems and autopilot design
  • Familiarity with simulation tools and avionics testing environments
  • Knowledge of embedded programming languages, such as C/C++ or Ada

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in avionics system design and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink)
  • Proficiency in using electronic design automation (EDA) tools
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing methodologies

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams
  • Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and safety

Benefits and Perks

We offer a competitive salary range of [$SALARY_RANGE], along with comprehensive benefits that include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plans with company matching
  • Generous paid time off and parental leave policies
  • Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in [$COMPANY_LOCATION] with a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for both in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

3. Senior Avionics Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Avionics Engineer to join the engineering team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will be instrumental in designing, developing, and validating advanced avionics systems for our cutting-edge aerospace projects. You will leverage your expertise in avionics architecture and systems integration to ensure that our aircraft meet the highest standards of safety, performance, and reliability.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and development of avionics systems, including flight control, navigation, and communication systems, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards.
  • Conduct thorough system analysis and simulation to validate design concepts and performance metrics.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with software, electrical, and mechanical engineering teams to integrate avionics systems into the overall aircraft architecture.
  • Oversee the development and execution of test plans, including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, to validate avionics functionality and performance.
  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership in avionics design and systems integration.
  • Prepare and present technical documentation, including specifications, design reviews, and verification reports, to stakeholders.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in avionics systems design and integration in the aerospace industry.
  • Strong knowledge of DO-178C and DO-254 standards and their application in avionics development.
  • Proficiency in simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink and experience with embedded software development.

Preferred:

  • Experience with avionics systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or advanced military aircraft.
  • Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodologies.
  • Knowledge of hardware design and experience with FPGA development.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in avionics communication protocols such as ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, and CAN.
  • Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded systems programming.
  • Familiarity with avionics testing tools and environments, including HIL and software simulation.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional problem-solving skills with a strong analytical mindset.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
  • Detail-oriented with a commitment to quality and a passion for innovation in aerospace technology.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health insurance plans
  • Retirement savings plans with company matching
  • Flexible work schedule and hybrid work options
  • Professional development and training opportunities
  • Generous paid time off and holiday policies

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This role is hybrid, requiring successful candidates to work from the office at least 3 days a week at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

4. Lead Avionics Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Avionics Engineer to spearhead the development of cutting-edge avionics systems that enhance aircraft performance and safety. In this role, you will leverage your extensive knowledge in avionics design and systems integration to lead projects from conception through to certification, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and standards.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the design, development, and integration of advanced avionics systems, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements and safety standards.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including software, hardware, and systems engineering, to define system specifications and architecture.
  • Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources, delivering high-quality avionics solutions on schedule.
  • Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies to address technical challenges throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the avionics team.
  • Stay updated with emerging technologies and industry trends to continuously improve avionics systems and processes.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in avionics engineering, with a strong focus on design, development, and integration.
  • Proven track record of leading complex avionics projects through the full lifecycle, from concept to certification.
  • In-depth knowledge of DO-178C, DO-254, and other relevant aviation standards.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex avionics systems.

Preferred:

  • Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
  • Experience with software development for avionics applications in languages such as Ada, C++, or Python.
  • Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and methodologies.
  • Experience in certification processes for new avionics systems with regulatory authorities.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in avionics architecture, including communication protocols such as ARINC 429, MIL-STD-1553, and Ethernet.
  • Proficiency in using simulation tools and environments for avionics system testing.
  • Knowledge of embedded systems design and real-time operating systems.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire diverse teams.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
  • Proactive and results-oriented mindset, with a passion for driving innovation in aviation technology.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while maintaining a focus on quality and safety.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Full-time offers may include:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • 401(k) with company matching to support your financial future.
  • Generous paid time off policy, including vacation and sick leave.
  • Flexible work arrangements and a fully remote work environment.
  • Professional development opportunities and continued education support.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

We encourage all candidates, regardless of qualifications, to apply and join our mission to advance aviation technology.

5. Principal Avionics Engineer Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Principal Avionics Engineer to join our innovative team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this pivotal role, you will lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced avionics systems that enhance aircraft performance and safety. You will be instrumental in driving the technical vision and strategy for cutting-edge avionic solutions, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality products on time.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the architecture and design of avionics systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements
  • Oversee the full lifecycle of avionics projects, from concept through to production, including requirements gathering, system design, integration, and testing
  • Conduct thorough risk analyses and develop mitigation strategies to address technical challenges and ensure system reliability
  • Collaborate with hardware and software engineers to design and integrate avionics components, ensuring seamless communication between subsystems
  • Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the team
  • Engage with stakeholders to define project scopes, deliverables, and timelines, providing regular updates on project status and milestones
  • Stay abreast of advancements in avionics technology and integrate best practices into product development processes

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Master’s or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 10+ years of experience in avionics engineering, with a proven track record of leading complex projects
  • Deep understanding of avionics systems, including flight control, navigation, and communication systems
  • Extensive experience with DO-178C and DO-254 certification processes
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on system-level thinking

Preferred:

  • Experience in model-based systems engineering and simulation tools
  • Familiarity with emerging technologies in avionics, such as AI and machine learning algorithms
  • Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and drive consensus on technical decisions

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in avionics architecture design and integration
  • Proficiency with software development tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, and C/C++ programming
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and verification methodologies
  • Knowledge of communication protocols such as ARINC 429, CAN, and Ethernet

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences
  • Strong leadership capabilities, with a passion for mentoring and developing talent within the team
  • Adaptable and resilient in fast-paced environments, with a proactive approach to problem-solving
  • A collaborative mindset, with a commitment to fostering an inclusive team culture

Benefits and Perks

Competitive salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health and wellness programs
  • Retirement savings plans with company matching contributions
  • Generous paid time off and holiday policies
  • Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
  • Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a hybrid position, requiring successful candidates to work from the office at least 3 days a week at our facility located in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

6. Avionics Engineering Manager Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Avionics Engineering Manager to lead our dynamic avionics team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this pivotal role, you will leverage your expertise in avionics systems to drive the design, development, and integration of cutting-edge technologies that enhance aircraft performance and safety. You will foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, guiding a team of engineers to deliver high-quality solutions in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Development:

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of avionics engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
  • Define and implement engineering best practices and methodologies to ensure robust avionics design and development.
  • Drive technical decision-making by conducting regular design reviews and ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations.

Project Management and Execution:

  • Oversee the full lifecycle of avionics projects, from requirements definition through to testing, certification, and deployment.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including systems engineering, software development, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless integration and execution of avionics systems.
  • Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively, ensuring successful delivery of projects within scope and schedule.

Strategy and Innovation:

  • Identify opportunities for technological advancements and drive innovation within the avionics domain.
  • Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies, integrating relevant advancements into existing systems and processes.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in avionics engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
  • Proven track record of managing successful avionics projects and leading engineering teams.
  • Strong knowledge of avionics systems, standards, and certification processes (e.g., DO-178C, DO-254).

Preferred:

  • Master’s degree in a relevant field.
  • Experience with advanced avionics technologies such as fly-by-wire systems, avionics integration, and UAV systems.
  • Familiarity with agile methodologies and project management tools.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Deep expertise in avionics architecture and design principles.
  • Proficiency in simulation and modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink).
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing and validation techniques.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate diverse teams.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
  • A proactive and innovative mindset, with a passion for advancing aerospace technology.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Equity options
  • Comprehensive health insurance plans
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Flexible work arrangements, including a hybrid work model
  • Professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a hybrid position, requiring candidates to work from the office at least 3 days a week in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply, even if you don't meet all the stated qualifications. Your unique experiences and perspectives could be a valuable addition to our team.

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