Avionics Test Engineer, Software

We’re looking for an Avionics Test Engineer, Software to join our growing Test team. In this role, you’ll focus on developing automated test infrastructure, scripting, and validation tooling for spacecraft electronics, embedded systems, and integrated avionics platforms. You’ll work closely with electrical, software, RF, and systems engineers to validate flight hardware, expand regression test coverage, and support spacecraft integration and environmental test campaigns. This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy building scalable test systems, automating hardware validation, and debugging complex integrated systems., * Develop and execute automated test procedures for avionics subsystems and embedded hardware

• Create Python-based tooling for:
• Automated test execution
• Regression testing
• Telemetry monitoring
• Data parsing and analysis
• Hardware control and instrumentation interfaces
• Expand automated regression test coverage for new flight software releases
• Develop and maintain flatsat and communications rack automation infrastructure
• Interface with RF and avionics hardware including:
• Oscilloscopes
• Power supplies
• DAQ systems
• VNAs
• Vector signal analyzers/generators
• SDR and USRP-based systems
• Support validation of:
• Radios and transceivers
• GNSS systems
• RF switches
• DVB-S2 and OFDM communication systems
• Analyze system performance metrics including:
• SNR
• BER
• EVM
• PLL behavior
• Link margin and insertion loss
• Support environmental and qualification test campaigns including:
• EMI/EMC
• Vibration
• Thermal cycling
• TVAC
• Troubleshoot integrated hardware/software issues on flight and flatsat hardware
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on design-for-test and system integration initiatives
• Author and maintain Design Verification Plans (DVPs), automated test procedures, and test reports
• Work within Linux-based development and test environments using Git-based workflows

Do you have experience in Version control?, * Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related field

• 3+ years of professional experience in aerospace, embedded systems, or electronics testing
• Strong Python scripting and test automation experience
• Experience working with laboratory instrumentation and automated test systems
• Familiarity with avionics hardware and embedded communication protocols:
• UART
• SPI
• CAN
• I2C
• Experience using Linux development environments and version control tools such as GitHub
• Strong debugging, analytical, and communication skills
• Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen or Green Card holder) in accordance with ITAR requirements, * Experience automating RF or communications system testing
• Familiarity with SDRs, USRP systems, and software-defined ground systems
• Experience with spacecraft, launch vehicle, or flight electronics integration
• Familiarity with digital modulation techniques and RF system analysis
• Exposure to environmental test campaigns and spacecraft qualification testing
• Experience developing scalable automated validation infrastructure
• Familiarity with link budgets, S-parameters, and insertion loss analysis

4.04.0 out of 5 stars Los Angeles, CA $137,500 - $176,000 a year - Full-time, Pulled from the full job description

• Paid parental leave
• Parental leave
• Health insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance, * Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
• World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let’s build something extraordinary together.

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet., Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We’re a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.