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Systems Integration and Test Engineer V / VI

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 lead the development and execution of Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) environments and drive the integration, bring-up, and validation of new technologies and features across programs.

This role is highly hands-on while operating at the system level, working across cross-functional teams to mature, integrate, test, and troubleshoot complex avionics, systems, and subsystems prior to production and flight.

Senior and Principal engineers define integration strategy, system architecture, and test philosophy, ensuring alignment from requirements through validation.  You will lead complex integration efforts, own system-level performance and readiness, and serve as the technical authorities responsible for delivering flight-ready capability.

In this role, you are expected to operate with extreme ownership, working effectively across disciplines in a leadership-driven environment, balancing technical execution with strategic direction and team influence.

 

Responsibilities

Integration Strategy & HITL Architecture

  • Define and architect HITL environments across programs
  • Establish integration standards, processes, and validation strategies
  • Lead complex system integration across avionics, software, and hardware
  • Ensure traceability from requirements to validation

Model-Based & System Validation Leadership

  • Oversee system-level modeling and simulation strategies
  • Guide control validation, system behavior analysis, and verification
  • Drive integration of models into embedded systems

Avionics & System Architecture

  • Define system architectures and interface standards
  • Lead protocol validation, timing architecture, and data flow design
  • Resolve complex cross-system integration challenges

Mechanical & Environmental Integration Oversight

  • Guide packaging strategies for SWaP and thermal constraints
  • Ensure system-level integration viability across environments

Ground & Flight Test Leadership

  • Lead integration test campaigns and readiness reviews
  • Define test plans, success criteria, and risk mitigation strategies
  • Serve as key technical authority during flight test operations

 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering
  • 8–15+ years of experience in aerospace integration/test
  • Deep expertise in embedded systems and system architecture
  • Proven experience leading integration efforts or teams

 

Preferred

  • Extensive SIL / HIL development experience
  • Flight test leadership experience
  • Experience with complex UAV or autonomous systems
  • Strong background in system architecture and verification

 

Leveling Signals

  • Owns system-level integration strategy
  • Leads teams and cross-functional efforts
  • Defines processes, not just executes them
  • Trusted technical authority across programs

 

Pay Range:

Level V - $171k - $191k

Level VI - $192k - $212k

Pay range for this role

$171,000 - $212,000 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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