Principal electrical engineer

Electra is actively recruiting a principal electrical engineer – power electronics to support design and development of high voltage and low voltage electrical systems for our 9-passenger eSTOL (electric short takeoff and landing), hybrid-electric aircraft. This position focuses on design, prototyping, integration, and testing and as such is based in Manassas, Virginia.

Responsibilities and Essential Functions

• Manage design, analysis, integration and testing of electrical systems for our hybrid-electric aircraft.  This role has the potential to support the development a number of aircraft electric systems and equipment, including avionics, power distribution (low voltage and high voltage), power electronics, electrical energy storage, and electric machines.
• Understand program objectives and requirements to conduct trade studies and define architectures, requirements, and interfaces between systems.
• Develop and manage requirements for the electrical systems and equipment, compatible with the program-level safety, performance, certification, and business objectives.
• Manage the evaluation and selection of electrical equipment suppliers.  Provide subject matter expert review and oversight throughout the development process.
• Prepare and present gated design reviews to demonstrate the adequacy of the design.
• Provide hands-on support for electrical and power electronic system integration and test activities.
• Collaborate with program management, other IPTs, and functional groups to accomplish team goals.
• Other Duties as assigned.

Minimum Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, aerospace, or a related field; and
• 12+ year of experience in relevant discipline areas or an equivalent combination of education, skills and experience.
• Expertise in the area of high power hybrid-electric and/or fully electric propulsion systems and power electronics.

Qualifications & Required Skills

• Experience in the development of aerospace electrical systems, hybrid-electric propulsion and/or avionics systems.
• Proficient with general-purpose test and build equipment/tools (oscilloscope, multimeter, soldering iron).
• A strong work ethic and ability to independently meet and lead the areas described in the responsibilities and essential functions.
• Excellent organization and communication skills.
• Ability to adapt well to change.

Additional Desired Skills:

• Master’s or PhD degree in relevant engineering discipline strongly desired.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), certification procedures (especially Part 23), and relevant industry standards.
• Experience with implementing and troubleshooting digital communications architectures (i.e. RS422, CAN, Ethernet, and ARINC429).
• Experience with grounding schemes for large and complex electrical systems.
• US Person (Citizen or Green Card) Preferred

Location: Headquarters in Manassas, VA. To encourage close collaboration this position is 3-4 days in the office, with some virtual work allowed.