Systems Engineering Manager

Systems Engineering Manager

About Electra :

At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air mobility, by making air travel more efficient, quieter, and environmentally friendly. Able to operate from soccer field-sized spaces, our Ultra Short unlocks a new era of aviation through what we call Direct Aviation - the next level of connectivity bringing air travel closer to where we live, work, and play. Headquartered in Northern Virginia, with additional locations in Switzerland, we're building a diverse team of global professionals passionate about redefining the future of aviation.

Position Overview :

Electra is seeking a  Systems Engineering Manager to oversee systems engineering processes at Electra. This role will support both direct program work and functional management, with a specific emphasis on systems engineering on Electra's EL9 Ultra Short aircraft. This is an incredible opportunity to make a direct impact on a cutting-edge development program.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions :

Lead and manage the systems engineering development processes at Electra, from requirements gathering through design, implementation, testing and deployment.

Manage the systems engineering team at Electra, providing technical direction, guidance and mentorship, leading hiring efforts, conducting performance reviews, and fostering a collaborative and productive team environment.

Develop company- and program-level processes and documentation required to ensure systems are developed in compliance with aviation software standards, such as SAE ARP4754.

Lead the implementation of system engineering processes across the EL9 program to ensure adherence to industry standards, internal procedures, and best practices.

Support requirements management activities for the EL9 program, including but not limited to elicitation, definition, traceability, verification and validation.

Support systems integration activities for the EL9 program, ensuring systems work together effectively across the aircraft.

Work closely with cross-functional teams, including design, safety, testing, and regulatory compliance, to ensure successful implementation of systems and processes. Provide technical leadership and guidance on best practices for systems engineering.

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by providing feedback on process effectiveness, identifying gaps, and proposing improvements to the system engineering process and its execution.

Providing subject matter expertise, technical review, and mentoring to a broad team of engineers.

Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience :

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline with at least 12 years of relevant experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience)

Required Skills and Qualifications :

Proven track record in leading systems engineering teams.

Proven experience with safety-critical systems, risk analysis, and application of standards such as SAE ARP5754, ARP 4761, or DO-178C / DO-254.

Experience with requirements management tools (e.g. JAMA) and system modeling tools (e.g. MATLAB, Simulink).

Strong understanding of development assurance levels (DALs), safety assessments, and verification processes.

Familiarity with certification processes and regulatory requirements for commercial aircraft (e.g., FAA, EASA).

A strong work ethic and ability to independently execute the areas described by the responsibilities and essential functions.

Strong project management skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams in the development and certification of complex systems.

Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional, team-oriented environment.

Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Desired Skills and Qualifications :

In-depth experience with certification of complex systems for a civil certified aircraft program.

Experience across the full life-cycle development of aircraft systems, from initial design and analysis to testing, certification, and operational monitoring.

Experience working on fly-by-wire and / or electric propulsion aircraft systems.

Licensed private pilot.

Location :

Headquarters in Manassas, VA.  To encourage close collaboration, this position is strongly preferred to be on-site.

Salary :

Electra's overall salary range for this level is : $180,000.00-$220,000.00

Our salary ranges reflect the minimum and maximum range for the Company level overall across all locations & projects and does not necessarily reflect the budgeted amount for this position. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and / or training, role, level, location, and project.

Compensation and Benefits

In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in a warehouse / aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.

Background & Drug Screening

Successful completion of a background check and / or drug screening prior to starting work may be required for this position.

Commitment

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.

Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.

Electra is an E-Verify employer.