Senior Engineer, Flight Control Systems

Otto Aerospace is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, focusing on sustainability through advanced aerodynamics and materials. The role involves designing, developing, and integrating Flight Control Systems, requiring collaboration with various teams and vendors to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and detail the Secondary Flight Control System in compliance with technical, performance, and regulatory requirements
• Perform trade studies to optimize architecture, function, weight, cost, and manufacturability
• Lead technical coordination with suppliers for the development of the Secondary Flight Control System through certification and delivery
• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for Secondary Flight Control System vendors, ensuring alignment with program requirements, schedules, and certification objectives
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams (structures, electrical, avionics, certification, manufacturing, and supply chain) to define and validate all mechanical and electrical interfaces
• Develop and maintain Zonal Reference Models (ZRM), Interface Control Models (ICM), and Interface Control Drawings (ICD) to clearly define interfaces with adjacent structures and systems
• Create and manage experimental and production-level digital product definitions, including parts, assemblies, and installations, fully defining dimensions, materials, processes, and tolerances
• Develop detailed system layouts and airframe integration studies using CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)
• Lead the creation, review, and update of certification, safety, and quality documentation, including FTA, PSSA, SFHA, ACP, and related compliance artifacts for the Secondary Flight Control System
• Ensure Secondary Flight Control System meets applicable Part 23 and ATA 27 regulatory and safety requirements
• Provide technical oversight and mentorship to junior engineers and designers
• Promote best practices in interface control, certification awareness, and supplier coordination
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

• B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent
• 7+ years of experience in the development of Flight Control Systems and equipment common in modern Part 23 / Part 25 business aircraft, specifically Secondary Flight Control Systems, including Flaps, Spoilers, HSTA, and Trim
• 5+ years of experience in the design and development of electro-mechanically actuated systems
• Strong knowledge of FAR Part 23 certification requirements and processes pertinent to Flight Control Systems
• Strong understanding and experience with RTCA D-160G, DO-254, and SAE ARP4754A
• Experience with ASME Y14.100 Drawings and Y14.5 GD&T
• Experience with model and drawing checking, engineering part and model release, and engineering change process
• Strong knowledge of industry standards and hands-on experience
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Active Listening: Practice active listening to gain insight and develop a deep understanding of all project stakeholders
• Critical Thinking: Make timely, informed, and value-driven decisions that support project success
• Organization: Maintain strong organization across agendas, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, while clearly communicating tasks, progress, updates, and blockers
• Problem Solving: Evaluate challenges from multiple perspectives and develop effective, well-reasoned solutions
• Self-Motivation: Demonstrate a high level of ownership, commitment, and drive from project initiation through completion
• Teamwork and Team Building: Foster a collaborative environment where diverse personalities and skill sets work effectively toward shared goals and accountability
• Business Communication: Communicate clearly and effectively using appropriate language, tone, and storytelling across emails, chats, reports, presentations, and other channels