Manager, Aircraft Avionics Systems

Merlin Labs

Manager of Aircraft Avionics Systems leading engineering efforts in aircraft technology at aerospace startup Merlin Labs. Oversee avionics team, integration, and design for airworthiness compliance.

Posted 6/10/2026full-timeBoston • Massachusetts • 🇺🇸 United StatesSeniorLeadWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage, mentor, and grow a high-performing aircraft engineering team with focus on avionics systems
Lead, coordinate, and guide Merlin aircraft modifications
Oversee the design and integration of critical systems, including flight management, navigation, communication, and flight control systems
Coordinate and collaborate with internal Merlin and external integration teams to develop and manage technical requirements, schedules, and quality assurance for Merlin’s products
Review and approve releasing engineering design data, engineering orders and other related documentation for maintenance and field use
Create and manage project schedules, budgets, and resource allocation to ensure program milestones are met on time and within cost
Prepare and release electrical design and fabrication drawings, test plans and reports, and associated aircraft installation and certification documents
Work closely with certification authorities (e.g., FAA, CAANZ) to ensure systems meet safety and reliability standards required for airworthiness
Partner with external vendors to manage technical requirements, schedules, and quality assurance for outsourced components
Set and uphold high standards for design reviews, documentation, and risk reduction strategies
Manage and coordinate aircraft surveys and provide on-site technical assistance for engineering teams and design evaluations
Provide guidance and instruction to the maintenance team on new modifications and testing
This position may require up to 50% travel, sometimes with short notice, to both domestic and international locations to support aircraft and system integration

Requirements

What you’ll need

BS in Electronics, Electrical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field and 10+ years of progressive experience with at least 2-4 years in a leadership or management role
Hands-on experience with aircraft avionics systems, electrical systems, and systems integration
Working knowledge of integrating various components onto aircraft in accordance with FAA guidance and regulations
Outstanding organization, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills
Specific experience with aircraft avionics, communications, and power distribution and management systems (nice to have)
Working knowledge and understanding of the qualification and regulatory requirements for commercial and military aircraft (nice to have)
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance (nice to have)

Benefits

Comp & perks

catered lunches featuring a rotating menu of delicious options
an assortment of snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
a selection of beverages, including coffee, tea, and other drinks, to keep you refreshed
health, dental, life insurance
unlimited vacation
401k with match
work/life integration
professional development

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

avionics systemselectrical systemssystems integrationdesign and integrationflight management systemsnavigation systemscommunication systemsflight control systemsproject managementtechnical requirements

Soft Skills

leadershipmentoringorganizationanalytical skillsproblem-solvingcommunication skillscollaborationquality assurancerisk reductionguidance

Certifications

BS in ElectronicsBS in Electrical EngineeringBS in Aerospace EngineeringU.S. Security Clearance