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Skyryse Verified
Aerospace, Autonomous Vehicles, Software

Chief Engineer

El Segundo, CAOnsiteFull TimeChief / Executive$250,000–$300,000 /yrPosted 2 months agoVisa sponsorship available

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Required skills

  • fly-by-wire
  • flight control systems
  • aerospace
  • systems engineering
  • component-level qualification
  • technical project planning
  • cross-functional execution
  • technical risks
  • architectural vision
  • system requirements

Nice to have

  • rotorcraft design
  • verification
  • ARP4754A
  • ARP4761
  • DO-178C
  • DO-254

Role summary

Skyryse is seeking a Chief Engineer in El Segundo, CA, to lead the technical vision and execution of their fly-by-wire flight control systems. This senior role involves taking complex engineering programs from concept through certification and deployment, coordinating across software, hardware, and flight operations. The Chief Engineer will set the technical plan, manage risks, ensure safety and performance, and translate system requirements into technical specifications. The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field or equivalent experience, with 10+ years in full-cycle engineering roles, including hands-on experience with fly-by-wire systems and aerospace component qualification. Preferred qualifications include a Master's/PhD, 15+ years of experience, rotorcraft design familiarity, and knowledge of specific aviation certification standards.

We’re on a mission to make the skies safe and accessible for everyone. Our technology gives pilots greater control by simplifying the management of any aircraft during standard flight operations, inclement weather, and emergencies. Our SkyOS solution, rigorously and relentlessly developed by skilled and dedicated Skyrysers, is the key to unlocking this unbounded future. Our technology, combined with our commitment to saving lives and our passion for aviation, will empower everyone to experience the joy and freedom of flight.

CHIEF ENGINEER - El Segundo, CA

The Chief Engineer is the senior technical authority for our fly-by-wire flight control systems, accountable for taking complex engineering programs from concept through certification and deployment.

You will own the architectural vision for the fly-by-wire system and, just as importantly, own its execution: setting the technical plan, coordinating engineering activity across software, hardware, and flight operations, resolving trade-offs, and holding the line on safety, performance, and regulatory requirements. You will work directly with the CEO, the VP of Engineering, and the VP of Certification to drive certification of SkyOS on the R66.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead technical project planning: scope definition, scheduling, resource allocation, and dependency management across engineering disciplines.
  • Coordinate cross-functional execution across software, hardware, systems, and program management to support development, qualification, and certification.
  • Identify technical risks early and implement mitigation strategies; escalate clearly and without delay when mitigation isn't working.
  • Develop and maintain the architectural vision for fly-by-wire systems, ensuring they meet performance, safety, and reliability requirements.
  • Work with stakeholders to elicit and document system requirements, and translate them into technical specifications and allocated design.
  • Make and defend data-informed design decisions and trade-offs; serve as the accountable technical voice when requirements conflict.
  • Review technical documentation, design artifacts, and test plans.
  • Partner with the certification organization to ensure design, evidence, and documentation support the certification basis.
  • Serve as the primary technical point of contact for internal leadership and external partners, including suppliers and regulators.

    • Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering, or a related field — or equivalent practical experience.
  • 10+ years of professional experience in full-cycle engineering roles.
  • Hands-on experience designing fly-by-wire flight control systems.
  • Experience with component-level qualification for aerospace applications.
  • Experience with applicable aviation certification requirements and the evidence they demand.

    • Preferred Qualifications:

  • Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering, or a related field.
  • 15+ years of professional experience in full-cycle engineering roles.
  • Experience with rotorcraft design and verification.
  • Familiarity with ARP4754A, ARP4761, DO-178C, DO-254, and 14 CFR Part 27 certification.
  • Background in complex embedded systems or avionics integration.

    • WHY SKYRYSE?

  • The opportunity to change the world through improving aviation safety and accessibility
  • Salary Range: $250,000 - $300,000
  • Valuable stock option plan
  • Heavily subsidized medical, dental and vision plans
  • Full-time employees are eligible for 20 days of paid time off (PTO) and 5 sick days annually. PTO and sick days must be used in accordance with Company policy.
  • A company with an ambitious vision, a dynamic work environment, and a team of smart, motivated, and fun to work-with colleagues!

    • WE WELCOME ALL

    Skyryse is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

    Employment is contingent upon confirmation of authorization to export in accordance with the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security Export Administration Regulations.

    NO AGENCY CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED.

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