Avionics Data Engineer - Payloads
Stratolaunch
Mojave, CA · $86k–$148k a year · Posted October 22, 2026
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About the job
On-site
Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.
Stratolaunch is seeking a Level I, II, or Sr-level Avionics or Flight Test Instrumentation Engineer to support the design, build, integration, and testing of experimental customer payloads on the Talon-A hypersonic vehicles. This position involves working with a multi-disciplinary engineering team, program management, and customers. An ideal candidate exudes passion and an interest in aviation.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Evaluate experimental payload requirements to determine fit for integration onto a hypersonic test bed.
Work across many teams and subsystems to define and implement collection and recording of experimental payload data
Contribute to instrumentation and telemetry (data) system requirements development, design, testing, & operation for customer payloads
Develop and support instrumentation and telemetry tests
Make suggestions and recommendations for improvements, including changes to workflow
Support Talon-A Payload Integration Lead
Support technical customer reviews and ensure contract deliverables are on time and meet or exceed customer expectations
Analyze flight data and generate reports for customers
Be an effective and professional representative of the company
Travel, as needed, to support the company
Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments
QUALIFICATION & SKILLS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Required Qualifications
Experience in instrumentation, telemetry, or network engineering in an operational or regulated test environment.
Experience with data acquisition systems and dataloggers
Experience working with government procurement processes
Experience writing system requirements or ability to effectively elicit requirements from a customer
Experience with designing test equipment to support both bench and in vehicle testing of electronic assemblies
Excellent written and verbal communication
Ability to acquire and maintain a DOW security clearance
Required Skills
Proficiency with at least one programming language, including but not limited to C/C++/C#, Python
Experience with source control systems such as git
Fundamental experience with laboratory equipment (e.g. oscilloscope, benchtop power supplies, etc.)
Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint, Visio)
Preferred Qualifications
Flight test program experience or Mission Control Room console experience
Experience designing & manufacturing aircraft harnesses
Aircraft and/or launch vehicle development or design experience (electrical, structures, or propulsion systems)
Experience with integration and test of payloads onto vehicles
Expertise with RF devices such as transmitters, receivers, encoders/decoders, or similar
Experience with environmental qualification of electronic devices intended for flight vehicles.
Hands-on aircraft build, piloting, or flight test experience
Active DOW TS/SCI security clearance
Preferred Skills
Experience with Curtiss-Wright or Safran Data Acquisition Units
Experience with NI LabVIEW and NI DAQmx
Experience with requirements management tools such as JAMA or Doors
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Level I ($86,000-$103,800): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 0-2 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
Level II ($97,500-$120,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
Sr Level ($120,000-$147,600): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
This position is located in Mojave, CA. Consideration for hybrid work arrangement with at least 75% on-site time for well-qualified candidates.
Travel estimated to be Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.
Benefits and our location(s) :
Healthcare ( medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs )
Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
Tuition reimbursement
This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.
Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.
Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.
Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes o