AD&D Integration and Test Engineer Staff - Duluth, Minnesota, , United States

Job Summary · Lead the design, development, and implementation of a full aircraft integration test lab environment being created from the ground up. This role is responsible for architecting and executing Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL), Software-In-the-Loop (SIL), and system integrat ...

Job description

Job Summary

Lead the design, development, and implementation of a full aircraft integration test lab environment being created from the ground up. This role is responsible for architecting and executing Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL), Software-In-the-Loop (SIL), and system integration environments to support advanced aircraft development, validation, company verification, and certification activities. The position requires a strong technical leader with proven ability to deliver on complex projects while driving continuous improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities/Essential Functions

• Design and implement an end-to-end aircraft integration test lab, including hardware, software, facilities integration and networking infrastructure.
• Define system architecture for real-time simulation environments (Iron Bird, SIL, HIL).
• Integrate avionics, flight control systems, propulsion, and electrical systems into cohesive test platforms.
• Develop and execute requirements-based test plans aligned with ARP4754A, DO-178C, and other certification standards.
• Automate test execution and data acquisition pipelines using industry-standard tools such as NI VeriStand, LabVIEW, Speedgoat, or equivalent real-time test platforms.
• Perform fault injection, regression testing, and continuous integration workflows.
• Implement a variety of communication protocols (ARINC-429, CAN/CAN-FD, Ethernet, RS-485) across distributed systems.
• Correlate simulation results with flight test data for validation and verification.
• Provide technical leadership for the lab configuration, tool architecture, and also develop and lead testing automation strategies.
• Mentor engineers in simulation, integration, and test methodologies.
• Act as the primary lab test focal for collaboration with other engineering teams.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration with avionics, software, and systems engineering teams.
• Ensure compliance with FAA, ASTM, and Part 23 certification requirements.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and present findings to stakeholders.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• BS in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering (MS preferred).
• 8+ years in aircraft systems integration and HIL/SIL environments.
• Advanced proficiency in Python, C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink.
• Hands-on experience with real-time test automation tools (NI VeriStand, LabVIEW, Speedgoat, or equivalent).
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• Deep knowledge of aircraft systems, control theory, and real-time simulation.
• Expertise in communication protocols (ARINC-429, CAN, Ethernet).
• Proven ability to lead technical projects and deliver complex integration environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's or Doctorate in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering. 
• Experience with Agile/SCRUM methodologies and CI/CD pipelines. 
• Familiarity with FAA certification processes, ASTM standards, and Part 23 compliance. 
• Previous experience working on aviation certification programs. 
• Pilot's license or flight test experience. 
• Background in VTOL, rotorcraft, or autonomous systems. 
• Exposure to regulatory frameworks (FAA, DoD, NASA). 
• Advanced data science and analytics skills for test data reduction and correlation. 
• Experience planning and executing large-scale test campaigns for aircraft development. 
• Proficiency in NI software suite (LabVIEW, VeriStand) and equivalent real-time test platforms. 
• Experience developing and troubleshooting custom code for real-time operating systems. 
• Familiarity with fault injection methodologies and failure mode analysis. 
• Hands-on experience with lab instrumentation (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, protocol analyzers). 
• Knowledge of control theory, GNC algorithms, and physics-based modeling. 
• Experience automating and executing test plans in fast-paced development environments. 
• Familiarity with DO-178C, ARP4754A, and other aviation standards. 
• Familiarity with industrial facility standards such as NEC/NFPA, OSHA safety recommendations and ANSI automation safety standards. 

Competencies

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: 

• Strong technical leadership and project execution skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and debugging capabilities.
• Effective communication and cross-functional collaboration.

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

• 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting.
• Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options.
• Free Health Tracking: With rewards for meeting health goals.
• Generous PTO: 120 hours accrued within the first year.
• Employee Referral Bonus: For referring talented candidates.
• Career Development: Tuition reimbursement and professional growth opportunities.
• Exclusive Discounts: Access to partner and marketplace discounts.
• Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations.

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.  Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required. 

Cirrus is dedicated to a drug free work environment promoting equal employment opportunity.  Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.