Avionics/Electronics Team Lead (Fixed-Wing UAV)
ICEYE
Role Description
ICEYE is looking for an Avionics/Electronics Team Lead experienced in unmanned high-integrity or complex systems development to join its aircraft development team.
As the Avionics Team Lead in the HAPS program, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, integration, test, and maintenance of various bespoke and commercially-of-the-shelf electronics systems, control logic, and software to support the entire operational lifecycle of a long endurance unmanned fixed-wing aircraft.
It will involve numerous challenges across the tradeoffs that need to be made on design (between mass budget, efficiency and integrity constraints), working on flight tests, pragmatic decisions to reduce uncertainties through flights, navigating structural and other limits.
You will get to work with a world-class team on a UAV project that has real impact and will set a new mark on aviation history. You will get to enjoy a transparent, open, and inclusive work culture. This is the beginning of a delivery-focused team that’s intended to grow fast, thus, it offers substantial growth opportunities.
Responsibilities
- Lead the avionics and electronics engineering team, defining architecture and technical direction through collaboration with the team and peers
- Make pragmatic tradeoff decisions to end up with the right architecture, which enables concurrent flight test programs to reduce the uncertainty of known and unknown unknowns, while also keeping an eye out for eventual design verification needs
- Own system design and integration across flight computers, communication systems, high efficiency power generation, high density power storage, sensors, and electrical power distribution
- Ensure safe, reliable operation through system redundancy, fault tolerance, and robust electrical architecture
- Drive interface definition and integration between avionics, payloads, and control systems
- Develop test and verification strategies for avionics hardware and embedded systems
- Collaborate with systems engineering and flight test teams on integration, verification, and flight readiness reviews
- Support engagement with aviation regulators for flight permits and certification documentation
- Work with strategic vendors to ensure delivery of critical components and be on the lookout for new valuable products - on communications infrastructure, on energy systems, and control
- Manage suppliers and subcontractors for avionics and electronics components
- Mentor and grow a multidisciplinary team in an environment focused on innovation, quality, and safety
Come up with novel solutions for how to achieve eventual high operational integrity on a system that has a flight duration that’s three orders of magnitude higher than other typical aircraft
Required Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience in avionics or electronics systems for aerospace, UAV, or safety-critical platforms
- Proven track record in team leadership or technical lead roles
- Ability to provide hands-on value on flight tests on diagnostics, debugging complex scenarios, and guiding the engineering team through complex challenges
- Strong understanding of flight control architectures, electrical systems, and system integration
- Experience with embedded systems, communication buses (CAN, ARINC, Ethernet), radio or satcomms systems, and sensor integration
- Familiarity with system verification, documentation, and certification processes
- Proficiency in engineering tools for system design, integration, and testing
- Excellent communication and coordination skills across multidisciplinary teams
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
- Experience in complex or high integrity unmanned systems
- Hands-on experience with avionics prototyping, integration, and testing
- Knowledge of relevant standards
- Ability to mentor electronics and firmware engineers to navigate the path to an operational capability
- Experience engaging with airworthiness authorities or participating in certification efforts.
- Familiarity with power management, energy storage, and electrical protection systems
- A proactive, collaborative mindset and passion for advancing aerospace technology
Who We Are
ICEYE is the global leader in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite operations for Earth Observation, persistent monitoring, and natural catastrophe solutions; owning and operating the world's largest SAR constellation. ICEYE is headquartered in Finland and operates from five international locations with more than 600 employees from nearly 60 countries, inspired by the shared vision of improving life on Earth by becoming the global source of truth in Earth Observation.
Our satellites acquire images of Earth at any time – even when it’s cloudy or dark – providing commercial and government partners with unmatched persistent monitoring capabilities. Information derived from our SAR images helps customers make data-driven decisions to address time-critical challenges in various sectors, such as maritime, disaster management, insurance, and finance.
Our team is a tight-knit group of experts across many disciplines (e.g., engineering, software development, radar technology, etc.). We’re innovative, driven people who strive for excellence in everything we do. Teamwork, curiosity, and having fun are core values at ICEYE, and contribute to Making the Impossible possible!!
Why You Should Work For Us
ICEYE is at the cutting edge of new technology and we are continuing to build and operate our commercial constellation of SAR satellites. Working with ICEYE, you will be part of making the impossible possible, whilst shaping the Earth Observation industry. You will work with varied, diverse and engaged colleagues to further the ICEYE mission. At ICEYE we realise that without great people we can not succeed, therefore you will be an integral, valued and appreciated colleague, with the ability to directly shape the vision and direction of the business.
We actively support Continuous Professional Development, and will provide access to a range of avenues to allow you to succeed, including courses, training and attendance at conferences. ICEYE is a place where your development, your growth and your success is a priority.
Benefits
- ICEYE offers amazing relocation packages to Valencia, Spain
- A job that matters in a dynamic Earth Observation environment with a scale-up approach
- An independent role with a supportive and diverse work environment
- Time for self-development, research, training, conferences, or certification schemes
- Health insurance
- Coffee, snacks, and sweets to accompany your daily space mission
- Creative, inspiring and collaborative office.
At ICEYE, we believe that diversity isn't just a buzzword – it's our greatest asset.
We're committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every voice is not only heard but celebrated. We know that diverse perspectives breed innovation and creativity, which is why we actively seek out individuals from all walks of life, backgrounds, and experiences.
Whatever your background, we want you to bring your authentic self to the table. Join us and be part of a team where differences are not only embraced but cherished, because together, we're stronger.
Apply now to start your ICEYE journey, and help us continue to make the impossible possible together. Read more about ICEYE and working with us at iceye.com
Employment is subject to applicable security screening (incl. SUPO, where required)