R&D Avionics Technician
Position Summary
The Avionics Technician supports Enstrom Helicopter’s Research & Development and flight-test activities by installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and modifying aircraft avionics and test instrumentation systems. This role works closely with engineering, flight test, and manufacturing teams to support prototype aircraft, ground test articles, and certification activities.
The position emphasizes hands-on avionics integration, test instrumentation support, and rapid troubleshooting in a development environment rather than routine line maintenance.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Avionics & Aircraft Systems
- Install, modify, and troubleshoot avionics systems on prototype and production-representative aircraft
- Perform wiring fabrication, routing, termination, and connector installation to aerospace standards
- Support integration of navigation, communication, flight-control, and monitoring systems
- Assist with aircraft power-up, functional checks, and system verification
R&D and Flight-Test Support
- Install and maintain flight-test instrumentation, including sensors, data acquisition systems, wiring harnesses, and recording equipment
- Support ground tests and flight tests through system setup, monitoring, and post-test teardown
- Troubleshoot avionics and instrumentation issues during development and test operations
- Assist engineers with prototype modifications and experimental configurations
Documentation & Compliance
- Read and interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, schematics, and test plans
- Document work performed, discrepancies, and corrective actions
- Support configuration control and test documentation as required for certification activities
- Follow FAA regulations, company procedures, and safety requirements
General Support
- Coordinate with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and flight-test personnel
- Maintain tools, test equipment, and work areas
- Assist with continuous improvement of avionics and test support processes
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required
- FAA A&P certificate preferred (or avionics-focused experience equivalent)
- 2+ years experience working with aircraft avionics systems
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
- Experience with wire fabrication, crimping, soldering, and connector assembly
- Strong troubleshooting skills using electrical test equipment (DMM, continuity testers, etc.)
- Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional engineering team
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with helicopter avionics systems
- Experience supporting flight-test or R&D environments
- Familiarity with data acquisition systems and test instrumentation
- Experience with prototype or experimental aircraft
- Knowledge of FAA certification processes (Part 27 / Part 29)
- IPC/WHMA or equivalent wiring certification
- Ability to support occasional off-shift or flight-test schedules
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to work around operating aircraft and test equipment
- Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and lift up to 50 lbs
- Work performed in hangar, shop, and outdoor environments
- Compliance with all safety and PPE requirements
