Senior Flight Dynamics & Avionics Engineer

4w1 month ago

Airbus

Washington, US · Full-time · $130,000 – $175,000

About this role

Airbus is seeking a Senior Flight Dynamics & Avionics Engineer to serve as a hands-on technical authority for advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms in Bingen, WA. In this role, you will bridge the gap between aerodynamics, embedded software, and real flight behavior to ensure aircraft operate safely, efficiently, and reliably.

Day-to-day, you will analyze and model UAV flight mechanics, evaluate flight performance metrics, and correlate flight test data with aerodynamic models. You will also support flight envelope expansion and contribute to defining performance requirements and mission-level objectives.

You will join the Airbus Helicopters Flexrotor Program, which offers one of the most sophisticated small tactical unmanned aerial systems (STUAS) with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL). The workplace is nestled in the heart of the spectacular Columbia River Gorge in Bingen, WA, offering innovation and the ability to contribute to game-changing solutions.

This role provides the flexibility to spread your wings while solving complex challenges and celebrating victories as part of a cohesive crew. You will thrive in an environment that values innovation and the natural beauty the Northwest has to offer.

Requirements

Expertise in flight dynamics, performance, and control analysis
Experience with UAV flight mechanics modeling and analysis
Ability to correlate flight test data with aerodynamic and performance models
Knowledge of flight envelope expansion and safety limits
Hands-on experience with avionics systems and embedded software
Strong analytical skills for evaluating flight performance metrics
Experience with vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) systems preferred

Responsibilities

Analyze and model UAV flight mechanics, including aerodynamic forces, stability, and control response
Evaluate and refine flight performance metrics such as endurance, climb rate, turn capability, and control authority
Correlate flight test data with aerodynamic and performance models to validate system behavior and identify discrepancies
Support flight envelope expansion, ensuring aircraft operate safely within aerodynamic and structural limits
Contribute to defining and verifying performance requirements and mission-level objectives
Serve as a hands-on technical authority for advanced UAV platforms
Bridge the gap between aerodynamics, embedded software, and real flight behavior

Benefits

Competitive base salary with incentive compensation including profit sharing schemes
Retirement savings plan and ability to participate in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Paid time off including personal time, holidays, and generous paid parental leave
Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, disability, and Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)