Principal Software Engineer (Controls)

ROLE: Principal Controls Engineer

LOCATION: Southern Los Angeles

WORK: Primarily on-site

COMPENSATION: $175,000 to $240,000 base salary, plus equity and a discretionary bonus

If you are already succeeding in a senior controls or avionics role, your next move needs to offer more than a different aircraft programme.

This opportunity gives you ownership of the systems, technical direction and team behind the first FAA-certified hybrid-electric aircraft.

The aircraft is already flying and has demonstrated fuel savings of up to 50% during operational testing. Its propulsion system has secured FAA approval for its G1 certification basis, with full certification representing the next major milestone.

Where you will make an impact

You will own two aircraft-critical systems: the power management controller and the flight deck, covering everything from the displays through to the throttle.

The controller works today, but it was not developed under DO-178C. You will lead its redevelopment from the requirements level, define the certification-led software process and add the functionality identified through the aircraft fault-tree analysis.

You will have the freedom to shape how the work is completed, influence the wider aircraft architecture and build the controls team as the programme grows.

What you will own

• The architecture, development and certification of the power management controller
• Flight deck controls, displays and pilot interfaces
• The DO-178C-aligned software development process
• Translation of safety analysis into control-system functionality
• Verification, validation and certification activities
• Technical direction and growth of the controls engineering team

What makes the move worthwhile

• Genuine ownership of two aircraft-critical systems
• Direct influence over technical strategy and system architecture
• A clear route into broader technical and team leadership
• Regular access to executive and technical leadership
• Equity in a business with proven technology and significant commercial demand
• The opportunity to put a major aviation certification milestone on your track record

Your background

• Senior, Staff or Principal-level experience in controls, avionics or embedded software
• Strong knowledge of DO-178C and certification-led development
• Hands-on experience with embedded software, MATLAB, Simulink or model-based controls
• Experience working from system requirements through implementation and validation
• Exposure to aircraft systems, avionics or propulsion controls
• Experience with ISO 26262 or a comparable functional-safety standard will also be considered.

This is a rare opportunity to move beyond delivering part of someone else’s roadmap. You will define the process, own the systems and shape the team responsible for bringing a first-of-its-kind aircraft through certification.