Lead Aircraft Systems Engineer
Honeywell Aerospace· Aerospace & Defense· Oct 20, 2026 · 6d ago
Phoenix, AZ, United States
In office
Full-time
Lead/Staff
$165K–$222K
7+ years exp
Job description
The Aircraft Systems Lead (ASL) provides technical leadership for aircraft-level systems engineering activities across one or more aerospace programs. The role is responsible for defining, integrating, verifying, and supporting aircraft systems and avionics solutions while serving as the primary technical focal point between engineering teams, customers, suppliers, certification authorities, and program leadership.
The ASL ensures that system requirements, architecture, integration, certification, and customer objectives are successfully delivered while maintaining compliance with applicable aerospace processes and standards. This role typically mentors systems engineers and supports the development of future technical leaders.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
• Lead aircraft systems engineering activities for assigned programs.
• Serve as the primary technical focal point for aircraft-level system integration.
• Provide technical direction for systems engineers, software engineers, hardware engineers, and test teams.
• Drive resolution of complex technical issues across multiple aircraft subsystems.
Systems Engineering
• Develop and manage system requirements, architecture, interfaces, and verification strategies.
• Perform requirements analysis, allocation, traceability, and validation.
• Support system safety assessments and compliance activities.
• Ensure adherence to aerospace development processes and applicable standards.
Aircraft Integration
• Coordinate integration of avionics, displays, communications, navigation, flight management, and other aircraft systems.
• Support laboratory, ground, and flight test activities.
• Evaluate system performance and aircraft-level behavior.
• Lead troubleshooting and root-cause analysis efforts.
Customer and Program Support
• Interface directly with OEM customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Support technical reviews, design reviews, certification reviews, and customer meetings.
• Assess project risks and recommend mitigation plans.
• Provide estimates, schedules, and technical status updates.
Verification and Certification
• Support certification planning and compliance documentation.
• Coordinate verification and validation activities.
• Ensure completion of required engineering artifacts and reviews.
• Support regulatory authority interactions as required.
Mentoring and Team Development
• Mentor systems engineers and technical contributors.
• Develop aircraft systems knowledge within the organization.
• Support growth of future ASLs, LSEs, and Project Engineers. Internal strategic plans specifically identify mentoring engineers into Aircraft Systems Lead roles as a key organizational objective.
Due to compliance with U.S. export control laws and regulations, candidate must be a U.S. Person, which is defined as, a U.S. citizen, a U.S. permanent resident, or have protected status in the U.S. under asylum or refugee status or have the ability to obtain an export authorization.
Must Have:
• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical discipline.
• 7+ years of experience with requirements-based development and verification
We Value:
• Demonstrated experience with aircraft or avionics system integration.
• Aerospace systems engineering experience.
• Experience leading cross-functional engineering teams.
• Knowledge of ARP4754A, DO-178C, and certification processes.
• Experience supporting aircraft flight test and certification programs.
• Familiarity with system safety, human factors, cybersecurity, and reliability processes.
• Prior experience serving as a technical lead, lead systems engineer, or chief engineer.
• Excellent communication and customer-facing skills.
About us:
Join a company that's reintroducing itself to the aviation community we've helped advance for more than a century. At Honeywell Aerospace (NASDAQ: HONA), we're launching as an independent, publicly traded aerospace and defense company built on a legacy of operational excellence and mission-focused execution.
Our new brand identity pairs that heritage with real momentum, as we build technology that helps pilots navigate with confidence, aircraft operate more efficiently, and operators stay ahead of change. With our systems on board 90% of the world's aircraft, your work here has reach that's rare to find anywhere else.
Focusing on our customers, investing in innovation, and building a culture of accountability and performance is how we're shaping what comes next.
Every horizon. Every mission. Every day.
Honeywell Aerospace products and services are found on aircraft across commercial aviation, defense and space — from engines and cockpit electronics to cabin systems, mechanical components and connectivity solutions. Our technology helps operators fly more safely, reduce fuel consumption, improve on-time performance and deliver a better experience for the people on board.
As aviation continues to evolve, we're also developing systems to support autonomous and supersonic platforms, bringing the same focus on safety and efficiency to the next era of flight. With approximately 36,000 employees worldwide and net sales of $17.4B in 2025, Honeywell Aerospace is one of the largest dedicated aerospace companies in the world. Explore our businesses: honeywellaerospace.com
Electronic Solutions develops the avionics, navigation systems, sensors and electromagnetic defense technology that help aircraft perform safely and with precision. Our systems are on board 90% of the world's aircraft — serving commercial aviation, defense and space operators from integrated flight deck platforms with 30-plus years in service to radiation-hardened systems trusted for human spaceflight.
Benefits:
Beyond a performance-driven salary, you'll work alongside dedicated experts on technology that's advancing aviation. As a Honeywell Aerospace employee, you're eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
• Employer-subsidized medical, dental, vision and life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts
• Employee assistance program and educational assistance
• Parental leave and 12 paid holidays
• Paid time off for vacation, personal and sick time
Explore your benefits: honeywellaerospacebenefits.com
POSTING TIMELINE
The application period for the job is estimated to be 40 days from the job posting date; however, this may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
You will be responsible for providing technical leadership and guidance in the design, development, and implementation of complex systems, ensuring their functionality, reliability, and integration to meet customer requirements.
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Benefits
Benefits detected in the listing.
Dental
Vision
401(K)
Paid Time Off
Parental Leave