Manager, Avionics Systems Engineering

Welcome to AALTO, a global leader in Stratospace. Based in Farnborough, AALTO is an Airbus subsidiary that manufactures, operates, and delivers services with its solar-powered, stratospheric platform: Zephyr. Zephyr’s persistence enables continuous flight for months at a time. Its current flight-time record of over 67 days in the stratosphere. From above 60,000+ft, or 20km above ground, AALTO can deliver several applications including direct-to-device connectivity and high-resolution Earth observation. AALTO operates in a new operational layer between most of air traffic and low-Earth orbit, Stratospace. This is where high-altitude platforms led by Zephyr deliver services to commercial and government partners. We can help monitor environments, observe borders, track natural disasters and connect unconnected communities. Join us as we create a new domain of aerospace: Stratospace. You’ll be part of a highly-skilled, innovative and passionate group of people – Team AALTO. Together, we can Unlock Stratospace.

The Manager, Avionics Systems Engineering supports the development and integration of avionics systems for a high‑altitude, long‑endurance (HAPS/UAV) platform. The role coordinates systems engineering activities across communications, navigation, surveillance, SATCOM, payloads, and ground systems. Responsibilities include guiding the team, supporting compliance activities, and assisting with supplier coordination to deliver safe, certifiable solutions. The position works closely with aircraft, ground, operations, safety, and certification teams and may support CVE activities when delegated. It contributes to system integration, verification, and mission readiness throughout the programme lifecycle.

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• Support development and maintenance of avionics architecture under guidance from senior engineering leadership.
  
• Lead, mentor, and manage a multidisciplinary avionics systems engineering team.
  
• Manage avionics requirements: elicitation, traceability, verification, validation, and configuration control.
  
• Develop and implement integration plans for aircraft and ground systems, covering test strategies, rigs, simulations, and data flows.
  
• Lead system design and integration readiness reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR).
  
• Coordinate with suppliers to support specifications, qualification evidence, and integration readiness.
  
• Ensure compliance with ARP4754, ARP4761, DO‑178, DO‑254, and applicable UAV/HAPS regulations; act as CVE when delegated.
  
• Oversee SATCOM and data‑link integration (e.g., Iridium, Inmarsat, Viasat, Starlink).
  
• Lead risk management, defect tracking, and resolution across internal teams and suppliers.
  
• Promote model‑based systems engineering and alignment of models/simulations with verification plans.
  
• Maintain configuration‑controlled baselines, ICDs, integration plans, and test reports.
  
• Produce technical documentation and present status updates to stakeholders.
  
• Travel internationally for supplier engagement, integration activities, and flight test campaigns may be required.
  

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• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Systems, Aerospace, Electronics, or related engineering discipline.
  
• Proven avionics systems engineering experience, ideally in HAPS/UAV or aerospace programmes.
  
• Experience leading avionics systems engineering teams.
  
• Solid foundation in avionics architecture, requirements ownership, and system integration.
  
• Proficiency with DOORS, Jama, and system‑level verification planning.
  
• Deep knowledge of ARP4754, ARP4761, DO‑178, DO‑254, and UAV/HAPS regulatory frameworks.
  
• Extensive experience with avionics and ground‑system integration, testing, and supplier management.
  
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and stakeholder‑management skills.
  
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
  
• Desirable: SATCOM integration experience, MBSE tools (e.g., Simulink), UAV certification liaison, CVE eligibility.
  

At AALTO, we offer an exceptional work environment that values your well-being and rewards your dedication. As part of our team, you\'ll experience the freedom of flexible working that enable you to achieve a healthy work-life balance. We believe in recognizing your hard work and commitment, which is why we provide a fantastic bonus scheme that rewards your contributions. Additionally, we understand the importance of financial security and support your future with a competitive pension plan. When you join us, you become part of a workplace that not only encourages your professional growth but also cares about your personal fulfilment and financial stability.

AALTO HAPS Ltd. is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.