Flight Test Instrumentation Systems Lead

Overview

Joby Aviation is seeking a passionate and driven Flight Test Instrumentation Systems Lead to join our flight test team. This role presents a unique opportunity to lead a highly talented technical team while engaging in a wide range of hands-on work supporting the development and certification of new and novel eVTOL aircraft. Flight testing at Joby Aviation is fast-paced, and we are looking for an individual who can work across disciplines, adapt to evolving test scenarios, and lead with both technical expertise and strong collaboration skills.

• Lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians responsible for developing, installing, configuring, and maintaining Flight Test Instrumentation (FTI) systems and Ground Control Stations (GCS) across the Joby flight test fleet.
• Drive the development of processes for the design, installation, and configuration control of instrumentation systems to support developmental and certification flight testing.
• Oversee the design and integration of instrumentation hardware, sensors, and telemetry systems to ensure accurate and reliable data acquisition.
• Collaborate closely with test directors, pilots, and engineering teams to define instrumentation requirements and ensure test readiness.
• Provide technical guidance on FTI troubleshooting, system maintenance, and data quality assurance.
• Support the development and refinement of GCS and telemetry systems that directly interface with the test aircraft.
• Foster innovation by evaluating and integrating new instrumentation technologies and methods into the Flight Test Department.
• Manage project schedules, resources, and budgets related to instrumentation deliverables.

• Bachelor of Science in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 10+ years of experience in the design, implementation, or utilization of instrumentation systems in experimental and/or certification flight testing.
• Demonstrated experience in training, mentoring, and leading technical personnel.
• Expert-level proficiency in:
  • Flight Test Instrumentation system design and implementation on experimental aircraft.
  • Data acquisition hardware, telemetry operations, and industry standards.
  • Maintenance and troubleshooting of instrumentation systems and sensors.
  • Strong knowledge of flight test configuration management processes.
  • Proven ability to create comprehensive procedures and technical reports.
  • Experience working with ground and flight test teams across various categories of Aircraft.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams in a dynamic environment.

• Experience with supporting software tools for instrumentation and test data management.
• 3D design and CAD experience.
• FAA Part 23/25/29 or equivalent EASA certification experience and knowledge.
• Familiarity with certification of air data systems.
• Experience using Lab View.
• Prior experience building, leading, and managing technical teams.

Compensation at Joby is a combination of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $160,500 - $214,000/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Additional Information

Joby is an equal opportunity employer.