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Systems Integration & Test Engineer III / IV

San Luis Obispo, California

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

Role Summary

At Zone 5 Technologies, Systems Integration & Test Engineers support the development and execution of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) environments, as well as the integration, bring-up, and validation of new technologies and features.

This role is hands-on and execution-focused, operating within a collaborative cross-functional team to mature, integrate, test, and troubleshoot avionics, systems, and subsystems prior to production.

Mid-level engineers in this role independently develop & execute integration and HITL test environments, own subsystem-level integration efforts, and play a key role in validating hardware and software prior to testing.  This position balances hands-on engineering with increasing technical ownership and responsibility.

 

Responsibilities

HITL Development & Ownership

  • Develop and maintain flight-representative HITL rigs
  • Integrate avionics, sensors, and control systems into test environments
  • Develop scripts/tools for simulation-driven testing
  • Lead feature validation and signal verification activities

Model-Based Development (Software)

  • Develop and maintain MATLAB/Simulink models for system validation
  • Support code generation and embedded integration
  • Validate control logic and system performance

Avionics Integration (Avionics)

  • Design wiring harnesses and signal routing architectures
  • Validate communication protocols (CAN, Ethernet, UART)
  • Perform signal integrity and timing analysis

Mechanical Integration (Mechanical)

  • Design packaging solutions considering SWaP constraints
  • Support thermal management and environmental validation
  • Develop integration hardware and mounting solutions

Ground Testing & Flight Support

  • Execute and lead integration test procedures
  • Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve integration issues
  • Support flight test campaigns and on-aircraft validation

 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant engineering field
  • 3–8+ years of experience in aerospace integration/test
  • Strong understanding of embedded systems and avionics architectures
  • Experience working independently in lab/test environments

 

Preferred

  • SIL / HIL experience
  • Flight test support experience
  • Configuration management experience
  • UAV/autopilot integration experience

 

Leveling Signals

  • Works independently on well-defined problems
  • Owns subsystems or test environments
  • Mentors junior engineers
  • Contributes to system-level decisions

Pay Range

Level III - $129k - $149k

Level IV - $150k - $170k

Pay range for this role

$129,000 - $170,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits: 

  • Competitive total compensation package 
  • Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
  • 401k with company-match 
  • 4 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

  • Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team! 

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

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