Manager – Test Data & Instrumentation

About Otto Aviation 

OTTO is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aerospace is designing world-class aircraft from first principles physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director–Test & Certification, the Manager–Test Data & Instrumentation is responsible for the strategic leadership, development, and oversight of all instrumentation and test data systems supporting material, structural, mechanical/electrical, and flight testing. This role ensures data integrity, system reliability, and compliance with regulatory requirements, while fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement. The Manager–Test Data & Instrumentation will lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians, collaborating across engineering, test, and certification functions to deliver safe, efficient, and certifiable solutions.

What You’ll Do

• Set strategic direction for instrumentation and test data processes, driving continuous improvement and innovation
• Oversee the definition, installation, and validation of instrumentation and data acquisition systems for all test articles and flight test aircraft
• Lead, mentor, and support a team of engineers and technicians responsible for instrumentation installation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Design Engineering, Flight Test Engineering, Quality, and Certification to define requirements and ensure alignment with program objectives
• Manage sensor installations, cable routing, and interface development for a variety of sensors (strain gages, accelerometers, thermocouples, pressure transducers, etc.)
• Support real-time and post-flight data visualization and analysis, including the development of software tools and workflows
• Oversee configuration control, documentation, and calibration records in accordance with company and regulatory standards
• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for instrumentation and data acquisition issues, ensuring timely resolution and system readiness
• Advise and support instrumentation and data acquisition conducted by third parties
• Manage Test Data & Instrumentation team member performance, training, and development
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship across the organization
• Forecast technical resources and manage budgets to align with program objectives and organizational growth
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives related to process efficiency, safety, and data quality

Who You Are

Education

• Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field

Experience

• 15+ years progressive, relevant experience in aircraft instrumentation, data acquisition, and flight test environments, including 5+ years in a leadership capacity
• Deep understanding of instrumentation principles, aircraft systems, and regulatory frameworks 
• Experience working with flight test organizations and aircraft certification
• Proven track record with FAA and international certification standards for instrumentation and test data systems
• Significant experience with data acquisition sensors and systems (strain gages, accelerometers, load cells, thermocouples, pressure transducers, RVDTs, string pots, encoders, etc.)
• Experience with digital signal processing and wireless data transmission systems
• Familiarity with data transmission protocols for telemetry, line-of-sight and beyond
• Experience with test facility instrumentation and data acquisition and control systems
• Experience testing aircraft composite structures and mechanical/electrical systems
• Working knowledge of 14 CFR Part 23/25/27/29 certification requirements and processes
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills with a collaborative mindset
• Ability and willingness to work flexible and off-shift hours when business needs dictate

Required Skills

• Active Listening: Strive to gain insight and truly understand all project stakeholders
• Critical Thinking: Make prompt, informed, value-based decisions
• Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, as well as communicating tasks, updates, progress, and blockers
• Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points to formulate the best solution
• Self-Motivation: Demonstrate the highest level of commitment and drive to see projects through
• Teamwork and Team Building: Contribute to a collaborative culture where people with unique personalities and skills work together effectively and hold themselves accountable to shared goals
• Strong Business Communication: Use professional language and tone in all forms of communication

Where You’ll Be

**This role will be remote with 25% travel to our temporary headquarters in Ft Worth until late2026/early 2027, when we are fully set up in our new facility in Jacksonville at which time it will transition to onsite there (relocation provided and timing of move is flexible)**

Benefits

Otto Aerospace provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short-term disability, voluntary long-term disability, and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 15 paid holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.

Otto Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

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