Avionics Engineer

Department: Avionics

Location: San Carlos, California

Employment Type: FullTime

About Aetherflux

Aetherflux is solving the global energy crisis by building the infrastructure for abundant, resilient, and continuous space-based solar energy. We are tackling humanity’s most complex engineering challenge with a world-class team dedicated to delivering a revolutionary power platform. Aetherflux is transforming how civilization powers, computes, and connects—from orbit to Earth.

Avionics Engineer

The Avionics Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and integration of electrical systems supporting advanced optical and laser satellite payloads. This role will require hands-on work with both electrical and optical components to ensure seamless integration of high-power laser systems and payloads for Aetherflux satellites. You will collaborate with optical, mechanical, software, and systems engineers to develop solutions that meet rigorous performance standards for space applications.

This is an in-person role at our San Carlos, CA HQ. You would join us on an aggressive timeline and see your work in space as we conduct our first space demonstration in the summer of 2026.

Responsibilities

• Design and test electrical hardware for laser and optical subsystems, focusing on power management, control systems, and signal processing.

• Develop and maintain schematics, PCB designs, and harness diagrams for laser systems and satellite subsystems.

• Conduct testing and validation of electrical systems, including integration with optical components such as detectors, sensors, and laser drivers.

• Perform testing and debugging of electrical hardware, ensuring robust operation under various environmental conditions.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (optics, mechanical, and thermal engineers) to ensure seamless integration and system-level functionality.

• Maintain detailed technical documentation, including system requirements, design specifications, and test plans.

• Support environmental testing and validation, including thermal-vacuum, vibration, and electromagnetic interference tests to ensure space-qualification of electrical subsystems.

• Participate in customer and internal design reviews, providing technical insights and recommendations for system improvements.

• Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry trends, and continuously improve the design and development process in the electrical engineering lab.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.

• 1-5 years of experience in electrical design, preferably in aerospace, satellite, or optical systems.

• Circuit simulation and analysis experience using tools such as LTspice and spreadsheets.

• Hands-on experience with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, soldering stations, and laser drivers.

• Strong troubleshooting skills and experience debugging electrical systems in lab environments.

• Proficiency with CAD tools for electrical design (e.g., Altium, OrCAD).

• Familiarity with control systems, sensors, and their integration into optical platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.

• Experience with high-power laser systems, including design, integration, and testing of laser control systems.

• Familiarity with space qualification standards and environmental testing for aerospace applications (thermal-vacuum, vibration, radiation).

• Experience working with cross-functional engineering teams, particularly in optical and mechanical disciplines.

• Knowledge of embedded systems and firmware development for control of optical and electrical systems.

• Understanding of satellite electrical systems and power distribution for space applications.

Benefits

• Equity in Aetherflux

• Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) retirement savings plan

• Paid time off

• 10 paid holidays per calendar year

• Paid leave for new parents

• Relocation assistance

• Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks