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.
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.
Job Title: Aircraft Subsystems Architect – Engineer
Location: Wichita, KS (Full Onsite)
Salary Range: $110,000–$130,000 annually (Direct Hire)
Travel: Occasional
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:
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Pay Details: $110,000.00 to $130,000.00 per year
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
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The California Fair Chance Act
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Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
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Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
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San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
