Principal Flight Systems Engineer

Principal Flight Systems Engineer

San Francisco, California

$260,000 – $300,000 + Equity + Full Benefits Package

An innovative aerospace company based in San Francisco is seeking an experienced Principal Flight Systems Engineer to support the development of next-generation aircraft technologies. This is a unique opportunity to join a high-performing engineering team focused on advanced aerospace systems, aircraft integration, and flight-critical technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead system-level design and integration activities across flight-critical aircraft systems.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams including software, electrical, mechanical, avionics, flight sciences, and safety engineering.
• Support system bring-up, integration testing, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis across hardware and software environments.
• Develop and execute integration, verification, and validation plans for aircraft systems and subsystems.
• Support prototype development, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing, simulation environments, and flight test activities.
• Drive technical problem-solving across complex integrated systems in a fast-paced engineering environment.
• Provide technical leadership and support across multiple engineering functions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related engineering discipline.
• Strong aerospace industry experience working on aircraft systems, avionics, flight systems, or other safety-critical platforms.
• Experience with system integration, validation, and testing within aerospace, defense, automotive, or other complex engineering industries.
• Strong understanding of:
• Real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Distributed systems
• Communication protocols such as Ethernet, CAN, LIN, or similar
• System-level integration and debugging methodologies
• Proficiency in one or more programming languages including:
• Rust
• C/C++
• Python
• Experience using version control systems, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing frameworks.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within cross-functional engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in advanced aerospace systems, electric aircraft, autonomous systems, or emerging aviation technologies.
• Passion for aerospace innovation and next-generation flight technologies.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $260,000 – $300,000
• Competitive equity package
• Annual bonus potential
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage
• 401(k) and retirement benefits
• Flexible PTO and paid holidays
• Relocation assistance available
• Opportunity to work on industry-leading aerospace technologies in a collaborative and mission-driven environment

If this opportunity is of interest and you possess the relevant experience and technical skillset outlined above, please apply directly. Suitable candidates will be contacted for a confidential discussion regarding the role and next steps.