The Mid-Level Lead Instrumentation Engineer plays a critical role in managing the planning, integration, and validation of aerospace instrumentation systems for test campaigns including structural, engine, and flight tests. This position requires technical expertise in sensors and data acquisition systems, along with leadership in coordinating teams, managing project timelines, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of all test data.
Instrumentation Architecture & Design:
Design and oversee the implementation of sensor networks, DAU configurations, signal conditioning systems, and data routing for test articles.
Sensor Selection & Calibration Strategy:
Specify sensors such as thermocouples, strain gauges, pressure transducers, accelerometers, and proximity sensors. Lead calibration and verification procedures.
Project Leadership:
Manage instrumentation work packages, oversee day-to-day progress, assign responsibilities to engineers and technicians, and ensure adherence to schedule and budget.
Test Readiness & Support:
Ensure instrumentation systems are validated, functionally tested, and ready for all phases of ground or flight testing.
Troubleshooting & Signal Integrity:
Resolve technical issues related to data loss, EMI, sensor drift, or incorrect wiring. Lead root-cause analysis efforts.
Documentation & Traceability:
Maintain up-to-date documentation, including sensor maps, calibration records, wiring schematics, DAU configurations, and system updates.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Coordinate with structural engineers, flight test engineers, data analysts, and system engineers to meet test requirements and integrate instrumentation seamlessly.
Regulatory & Quality Compliance:
Ensure work complies with aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO 17025), as well as FAA, EASA, or military test regulations.
Technical Execution & System Integration:
Deliver robust and accurate instrumentation systems that meet rigorous performance requirements for dynamic aerospace environments.
Team Coordination & Execution Oversight:
Bridge the gap between engineering planning and field execution by managing teams, schedules, and technical details effectively.
Data Quality & Signal Reliability:
Ensure high-quality, low-noise, synchronized data collection across all instrumentation systems—critical for flight safety and data analysis.
Risk Identification & Mitigation:
Proactively identify and resolve risks related to sensor installation, DAU failure, or signal loss before testing begins.
Continuous Process Improvement:
Enhance standard operating procedures, improve calibration workflows, and develop installation guides to increase repeatability and efficiency.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Instrumentation, or Mechatronics Engineering
4–7 years of experience in aerospace instrumentation engineering, including direct involvement with DAUs and sensor systems
Proven ability to lead small technical teams and manage instrumentation-related project milestones
Deep familiarity with sensors (strain, pressure, thermal, vibration), signal conditioning, and data acquisition architecture
Experience working with airborne and ground-based test programs
Proficiency with wiring standards, calibration equipment, and schematic interpretation
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Familiarity with aerospace quality standards (AS9100, DO-160, MIL-STD, etc.)