Principal Electrical Engineer

Principal Electrical Engineer

Manassas, VA

At Electra, we're building the EL9 — a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage — and this role is no exception.

The Role

Electra is actively recruiting a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead the 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.

What You'll Do

• Lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of electrical systems for our hybrid-electric aircraft. This role has the potential to support the development of 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.
• Support 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.
• Manage and provide hands-on support for electrical system integration and test activities.
• Collaborate with program management, other IPTs, and functional groups to accomplish team goals.
• Other Duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• 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.
• 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.

Bonus Points

• Master's or PhD degree in relevant engineering discipline strongly desired.
• Expertise in the area of high power hybrid-electric and/or fully electric propulsion systems and power electronics.
• 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

This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Compensation Range

$150,000 - $180,000 USD

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 401(k) with immediate vesting
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
• Free on-site parking

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.