Systems Integration & Test Manager

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. At Zone 5 Technologies, we rapidly develop and field advanced unmanned aircraft systems through disciplined integration, testing, and block upgrade strategies.  We are seeking a Systems Integration & Test Manager to architect and lead a cross-disciplinary engineering team responsible for Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) integration, configuration control, and structured feature validation prior to flight.This role will build the technical and procedural backbone that allows software, avionics, mechanical, and environmental subsystems to integrate predictably and transition cleanly into aircraft production.ResponsibilitiesHITL Architecture & Integration EnvironmentArchitect and maintain a flight-representative HITL environmentDefine hardware and software integration standardsEnsure coexistence between hardware platforms and software feature developmentEstablish component-level integration workflows (e.g., radar altimeter, avionics modules)Validate signals, timing, interfaces, compatibility and performance prior to aircraft installationFeature On-Ramp & Block Upgrade StrategyDefine readiness criteria for transitioning features from HITL to aircraftDevelop structured ground test campaignsCreate block upgrade roadmaps for production aircraftCoordinate with software and flight test leadership for release planningConfiguration Control & Systems EngineeringEstablish configuration management processes for HITL and aircraft baselinesControl hardware revisions, firmware versions, and software baselinesImplement traceability between requirements, test cases, and system outputsDevelop and enforce integration and verification proceduresCross-Functional Team LeadershipManage a team of mechanical, avionics, and software integration engineersCoordinate closely with core Software, GNC, Avionics, Electrical Engineering and production teamsDrive technical reviews, design readiness reviews, and integration reviewsMentor engineers in systems thinking and disciplined integration practicesGround Test & ValidationLead structured ground test campaignsDefine data collection and validation methodsIdentify risks prior to flight integrationEnsure safe and repeatable test executionQualifications:Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred)8–12+ years of experience in aerospace systems integration and testingExperience leading multi-disciplinary engineering teamsStrong understanding of avionics integration, signal timing, and embedded systemsExperience with HITL environments and system-level validationFamiliarity with configuration management tools and processes PreferredExperience using CAMEO Systems Modeler for system architecture development, requirements traceability, interface definition, and configuration controlExperience in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) development and integrationStrong background in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)Experience transitioning development features into production block upgrades with structured release managementFamiliarity with MATLAB/Simulink-based architectures, including model validation and code generation workflowsExperience with VxWorks-based embedded systems and real-time software integration Pay range for this role: $175,000 USD - $200,000 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 year12 annual company holidaysWhy 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.