Principal Electrical Engineer

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matter at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

Electra is actively recruiting a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead the design and development of high-voltage and low-voltage electrical systems for our 9-passenger eSTOL (electric short takeoff and landing), hybrid-electric aircraft. This position focuses on design, prototyping, integration, and testing and as such is based in Manassas, Virginia.

What You'll Do

• Lead the design, analysis, integration, and testing of electrical systems for our hybrid-electric aircraft. This role has the potential to support the development of a number of aircraft electric systems and equipment, including avionics, power distribution (low voltage and high voltage), power electronics, electrical energy storage, and electric machines.
• Understand program objectives and requirements to conduct trade studies and define architectures, requirements, and interfaces between systems.
• Develop and manage requirements for the electrical systems and equipment, compatible with the program-level safety, performance, certification, and business objectives.
• Support the evaluation and selection of electrical equipment suppliers. Provide subject matter expert review and oversight throughout the development process.
• Prepare and present gated design reviews to demonstrate the adequacy of the design.
• Manage and provide hands-on support for electrical system integration and test activities.
• Collaborate with program management, other IPTs, and functional groups to accomplish team goals.
• Other Duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• Experience in the development of aerospace electrical systems, hybrid-electric propulsion and/or avionics systems.
• Proficient with general-purpose test and build equipment/tools (oscilloscope, multimeter, soldering iron).
• A strong work ethic and ability to independently meet and lead the areas described in the responsibilities and essential functions.
• Excellent organization and communication skills.
• Ability to adapt well to change.
• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, aerospace, or a related field; and
• 12+ year of experience in relevant discipline areas or an equivalent combination of education, skills and experience.

Compensation:

$150,000 – $180,000 annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Bonus Points

• Master's or PhD degree in relevant engineering discipline strongly desired.
• Expertise in the area of high power hybrid-electric and/or fully electric propulsion systems and power electronics.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), certification procedures (especially Part 23), and relevant industry standards.
• Experience with implementing and troubleshooting digital communications architectures (i.e. RS422, CAN, Ethernet, and ARINC429).
• Experience with grounding schemes for large and complex electrical systems.
• US Person (Citizen or Green Card) Preferred

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 401(k) with immediate vesting
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
• Free on-site parking