Architect the Future of Mission-Ready Aircraft Systems

Aircraft Subsystems Architect – Engineer | Wichita, KS | $110K–$130K (Direct Hire) annually

PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the aviation industry to hire a highly experienced Aircraft Subsystems Architect – Engineer IDirect Hire) to shape the next generation of missionized aircraft platforms. If you bring deep expertise in Mission Management Systems, Command & Control communications, and sensor integration — and thrive at the intersection of architecture, certification, and innovation — this is your opportunity to lead from concept through certification.

Your Impact

As the Aircraft Subsystems Architect, you will own the mission systems architecture across the full program lifecycle. From translating high-level customer needs into detailed system requirements to leading design milestones and certification strategies, your decisions will directly influence platform capability, performance, and mission success.

This is a high-visibility technical leadership role, based full onsite in Wichita, KS, with occasional travel.

Position Details

Job Title: Aircraft Subsystems Architect – Engineer
Location: Wichita, KS (Full Onsite)
Salary Range: $110,000–$130,000 annually (Direct Hire)
Travel: Occasional

What You’ll Do

• Translate high-level customer requirements into detailed platform and subsystem requirements

• Develop functional requirements and define interfaces for Mission Management Systems and sensing/communication subsystems

• Own and evolve the mission system architecture, including:

  • Roadmap development

  • Trade studies

  • Concept of Operations (CONOPS)

  • Requirements and interface elaboration throughout the lifecycle

• Lead architectural progress through major milestones, including Critical Design Reviews (CDR) and Critical Integration Reviews (CIR)

• Conduct solution trade-off analyses to define optimal product configurations

• Communicate architectural frameworks across multidisciplinary engineering teams

• Define Validation & Verification (V&V) strategies from concept through execution

• Develop supplier specifications and oversee integration of vendor solutions

• Support new business pursuits through white papers and proposals

• Present data-driven observations and recommendations to senior leadership

• Contribute to Digital and Systems Engineering Strategy and implementation initiatives

• Apply Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) principles

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Aerospace, or Mechanical Engineering

• 10+ years of experience in:

  • Mission Management Systems development

  • Command & Control communications

  • Sensor integration and certification

• Strong knowledge of complex systems development methodologies (e.g., ARP4754, ARP4761)

• Familiarity with NATO STANAG 4671 and 4586

• Solid understanding of aircraft systems and certification processes

• Experience using simulation tools and requirements capture tools

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

• Strong analytical and holistic problem-solving skills

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences

• This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.                                               
   

Preferred Qualifications

• Self-starter with demonstrated ability to independently manage complex programs

• Experience with data visualization tools

• Experience contributing to digital engineering transformations

• Familiarity with MOSA framework implementation

Why Join Us?

At PDS Tech Commercial, you’ll step into a pivotal architecture role supporting advanced aviation programs that demand innovation, rigor, and collaboration.

You’ll benefit from:

• Full onsite collaboration in Wichita — a cornerstone of aviation innovation

• Opportunity to lead architecture decisions across mission-critical systems

• Exposure to cross-functional and executive-level engagement

• A culture that values curiosity, disciplined engineering, and knowledge sharing

• The chance to shape digital and systems engineering strategy

This role is ideal for an architect who thrives on complexity, embraces teamwork, and is passionate about delivering integrated, certified, mission-ready solutions.

Ready to Lead Mission Systems Architecture?

If you’re prepared to architect advanced aircraft subsystems and guide programs from concept through certification, we want to hear from you.

Apply today and take the lead in shaping the future of mission aviation systems.

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