Electrical Systems Architect - Unmanned Systems

JOB TITLE: Electrical Systems Architect - Unmanned Systems LOCATION: Irvine, CA PAY RATE: $67.70-108.55/hour We are a national aerospace and defense staffing agency seeking highly qualified candidates for a position with a top-tier client. Job Details: Job Type: Contract (6 months with potential for extension) Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna) Perks: Bonus potential + Priority access via Tier 1 supplier Openings Nationwide: Thousands of opportunities across the U.S. Qualifying Questions: Are you a U.S. person as defined under ITAR regulations? Do you meet the educational and experience requirements for this role? Can you commute to the job location or relocate if necessary? Summary: Lead top-level electrical system architecture development for UAS platforms Serve as technical lead and design authority for electrical subsystems Conduct trade studies to evaluate components and system-level impacts; make data-driven architecture decisions Define and maintain Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and subsystem requirements to ensure compatibility and performance Collaborate with mechanical, software, and systems teams to ensure electrical system integrity across the product lifecycle Guide integration, testing, and validation of electrical systems on UAS platforms Mentor junior electrical engineers and promote technical rigor and innovation Drive continuous improvement in design methodologies, documentation practices, and system-level engineering processes Requirements: Must be eligible to obtain Export Authorization and DoD Clearance if required Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering Equivalent experience may be considered 10+ years of professional experience as an aircraft systems architect Advanced expertise in electrical engineering, including circuit design, power electronics, embedded systems, and signal integrity Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining ICDs and defining electrical subsystem requirements Strong background in trade study execution and component evaluation for system optimization Experience troubleshooting and performing root cause analysis in complex systems Significant background in UAS, Airborne ISR, or low-cost expendable aircraft design Experience in regulated industries such as Aerospace, Defense, or Government contracting Work environments range from general office to warehouse or production floor Ability to stand, climb, crouch, and reach as needed Occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs Movement between departments, floors, and worksites may be required May involve heavy lifting, crawling, climbing in/out of equipment, or outdoor work Must be a U.S. Citizen (as defined by ITAR). Preferred Skills: Experience in production/factory environments, including DFM/DFA and manufacturing documentation Strong collaboration and communication skills across multidisciplinary teams Experience developing embedded software Experience in DoD or defense program environments (e.g., SBIR/STTR, classified programs) Familiarity with system safety, EMI/EMC compliance, and environmental qualification testing Previous leadership or principal-level roles in cross-functional system architecture efforts About Us: The Structures Company is a premier national aerospace and defense staffing agency specializing in contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire placements. We deliver expert workforce solutions across engineering, IT, production, maintenance, and support roles. As trusted partners to major aerospace OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, we connect professionals with opportunities to grow and excel in the aviation and aerospace industries. Eligibility Requirements: Must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) to comply with ITAR regulations. Keywords: aerospace, aviation, engineering, maintenance, aircraft design, defense Take your career to new heights—apply today! #hotjobs