Lead Systems Engineer - Avionics Communication

Company Overview

Helsing is a defence AI company. Our mission is to protect our democracies. We aim to achieve technological leadership so that open societies can continue to make sovereign decisions and control their ethical standards.

We are an ambitious team of engineers, AI specialists and programme managers. We look for mission-driven people to join our European teams and apply their skills to solve complex, impactful problems. We embrace an open, transparent culture that welcomes healthy debates on the use of technology in defence, its benefits, and its ethical implications.

The Role

As an Avionics Systems Engineer focusing on communications, you will define the end‑to‑end architecture for airborne systems encompassing data, voice, and mission‑critical links.

You will collaborate with industry partners and platform teams, integrate emerging technologies into critical air platforms, engage with diverse partners, suppliers, and government stakeholders to align on standards and interoperability, and shape the future of airborne mission systems.

Day‑to‑Day Responsibilities

• Guide the system design and development of airborne and ground‑based communication architectures, leveraging modern technologies to deliver operational advantages.
• Foster collaborative relationships with stakeholders, partners, suppliers, and government bodies to ensure seamless integration.
• Oversee the complete systems engineering lifecycle, advancing concepts from initial requirements through to full qualification.
• Prepare and supervise rigorous testing protocols at both the system and aircraft levels, encompassing flight tests.
• Produce comprehensive certification and compliance documentation, ensuring strict adherence to aviation and regulatory standards throughout development.
• Provide transparent reporting on project status and technical developments to engineering and programme management teams.

Qualifications

• Hold a degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
• Have defined and developed military or civil communication architectures for air platforms.
• Possess deep knowledge of communication technology, encompassing software‑defined radios, data links, air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground communications, cybersecurity, RF, and SATCOM.
• Understand network management, antenna design, electronic warfare, and secure communications.
• Demonstrate clear and efficient communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical findings to diverse internal and external audiences.
• Are committed to remaining at the forefront of current research and technological advancements.

Nice to Have

• Bring established familiarity with aircraft certification processes and avionics integration.
• Have practical experience overseeing live flight test programmes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and VSOP options.
• Relocation support: up to €2,500 and 4 weeks temporary accommodation.
• Learning allowance: €500/£450 yearly allowance.
• Health and wellness: gym membership and mental health support (Nilo.health).
• Social: regular company events and monthly social allowances.
• Enhanced parental leave: 22 weeks fully paid for primary caregivers and 6 weeks for secondary caregivers.
• Family support: 5 days of paid family emergency leave, 100% remote work option during pregnancy and phased return to work.

Equal Opportunity

Helsing is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability or gender identity. Please do not submit personal data revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, data concerning your health, or data concerning your sexual orientation.