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AD&D A & E Staff Engineer

Cirrus
Duluth, MN Full Time
POSTED ON 4/17/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/16/2026

Job Summary

The Advanced Design & Development is seeking an experienced R&D Aircraft Systems Engineer role responsible for conducting research & development activities that include requirements development, system definition, prototyping and validation of new designs. The work ranges from simple electrical/electronic prototyping to integration of complex systems in labs and on aircraft in an R&D environment. Systems in scope include electrical systems, electrical power generation, flight controls, avionics, autopilot systems, motor controls, antennae, and navigation systems. This position necessitates multi-disciplinary collaboration to develop new systems. The ideal candidate is a curious self-starter, thrives in a creative environment where complex problems need new solutions, and can balance analytical skills with pragmatic hands-on prototyping. The lifecycle of projects ranges from early concepts through transition into formal programs.

Duties and Responsibilities/Essential Functions

  • Design and prototype electrical and electronic systems using mockups, prototype tools, integration labs, flight test assets, as well as via flight test.
  • Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams and third parties to achieve shared goals. Team player.
  • Execute assignments and drives results with minimal guidance.
  • Develop and validate functional and performance requirements of system requirements based on exploratory R&D.
  • Hands-on building of systems using a mix of hand tools and common industrial equipment available in electrical/electronics labs.
  • Develop and execute test plans to evaluate prototypes using test and validation equipment.
  • Generate engineering documentation, such as schematics and wiring diagrams, in accordance with company procedures to develop and evaluate design data for future platforms.
  • Participate in the developmental installations and evaluations of test aircraft.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience: 

  • Bachelor’s degree or greater in a technical field related to Electrical or Aerospace Engineering
  • Minimum of 10 years industry experience in aerospace
  • Competent in electrical and electronic system design tools and practices.
  • Track record driving results under uncertainty during the earlier stages of development
  • Ability to work independently as well as part of a highly functioning team.
  • Proficiency using industry equipment such as a soldering iron, digital voltmeter, oscilloscope, function generator, and spectrum analyzer
  • Experienced with prototyping methods & tools, including some programming (Python, Raspberry Pi, etc.).
  • Experienced with integration labs with National Instruments equipment and Matlab System Composer.
  • Strong communication skills: document and demonstrate sound rationale for design choices.
  • Familiar with systems engineering practices and associated tools, such as JAMA.
  • Knowledgeable in one or more of the following or similar: Capital, LTSpice, Visio, MatchCAD
  • Familiar with one or more of the following, or similar: Windchill, and Atlassian Jira
  • Familiar with common office tools: Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) and Microsoft Power Bi.
  • Able to open and interrogate CAD models (Creo).

Distinguishing Education and/or Experience

  • Lead generating system and simulation models using Matlab, Raspberry Pi, Python, etc.
  • Lead with National Instruments LabView and Matlab of hardware-in-the-loop simulators, conducting testing and troubleshooting of HW/SW interfaces
  • Experience with developmental flight testing.
  • Pilot experience desirable.
  • Exposure to Part 23 and/or Part 25 federal regulations.

Competencies

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: 

  • Manages Ambiguity
  • Develops Talent
  • Plans and aligns
  • Drives Engagement

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

  • 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting.
  • Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options.
  • Free Health Tracking: With rewards for meeting health goals.
  • Generous PTO: 160 hours accrued within the first year.
  • Employee Referral Bonus: For referring talented candidates.
  • Career Development: Tuition reimbursement and professional growth opportunities.
  • Exclusive Discounts: Access to partner and marketplace discounts.
  • Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations.

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position.  Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.  Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required. 

 Cirrus is dedicated to a drug free work environment promoting equal employment opportunity.  Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Salary.com Estimation for AD&D A & E Staff Engineer in Duluth, MN
$178,234 to $215,885
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