Functional Avionics Architect (M/F)

About Exotrail

Space is becoming more strategic and competitive than ever. Tomorrow’s space leaders will not simply launch satellites into orbit, they will be able to move them, reposition them, extend their lifetime, and maximize their performance in space.

Since 2017, Exotrail has been developing and operating cutting-edge in-space mobility solutions for commercial, institutional, and defense customers. From our high-performance propulsion system spaceware™ to our orbital transfer vehicle spacevan™ , we enable satellites to go farther, stay operational longer, and achieve more.

Today, more than 200 Exotrailers across Massy and Toulouse are working together to make space operations more efficient and sustainable.

Backed by over €75 million in funding , we are pursuing a clear mission:

Making space a sustainable frontier for future generations.

Job Description

As part of our In-Orbit Services (IoS) division, we are looking for a Functional Avionics Architect to define, maintain, and validate the functional avionics architecture of our satellite platforms.

You will play a key role in ensuring the consistency, robustness, and traceability of avionics functions across the spacecraft, from system requirements allocation to integration and validation activities.

Avionics Functional Architecture Definition

• Translate system and mission requirements into avionics functions allocated to spacecraft equipment.

• Define and maintain the functional architecture baseline, including functional diagrams, allocations, and operational scenarios.

• Lead architecture workshops with System, Software, AOCS, DHS, IVV, and other engineering teams.

• Ensure consistency between system requirements and avionics functional implementation.

Functional Consistency & Interface Management

• Ensure functional consistency between avionics equipment such as OBC, PCDU, GNSS receivers, AOCS sensors, and TM/TC systems.

• Define and maintain internal functional ICDs, including data flows, synchronization, timing, and command logic.

• Drive technical trade-offs while balancing performance, maturity, cost, and system constraints.

• Support architectural decisions and interface management throughout the project lifecycle.

Integration, Verification & Validation Support

• Contribute to the definition of IVV strategies, including HIL testing, simulations, and integration benches.

• Support the development and validation of FDIR (Fault Detection, Isolation and Recovery) strategies.

• Ensure traceability and verification of avionics requirements throughout testing activities.

• Contribute to compliance with ECSS and applicable space standards.

Project Coordination & Work Package Leadership

• Act as Work Package Leader (WPL) for Functional Avionics Architecture activities.

• Define and maintain planning, workload, milestones, delivery strategy, and project objectives.

• Coordinate contributors and ensure the quality, completeness, and traceability of deliverables.

• Represent the work package toward project management and other technical teams.

• Participate in customer and internal reviews such as PDR and CDR.

• Communicate progress, risks, and technical decisions to stakeholders.

About You

Required Experience

• Several years of experience in avionics, systems engineering, functional architecture, or spacecraft development.

• Strong understanding of complex systems and the interactions between multiple avionics subsystems.

• Experience translating system requirements into functional architectures and technical solutions.

• Familiarity with verification, validation, integration, and testing activities.

• Experience working in aerospace, space, defense, or other high-reliability industries.

• Previous experience in the space sector is a strong plus.

Technical Skills

• Functional avionics architecture design and allocation.

• Good understanding of satellite avionics subsystems and their interactions.

• Requirements engineering, traceability, and system verification.

• IVV methodologies, system validation, and functional testing approaches.

• Knowledge of FDIR principles and fault management strategies.

• Understanding of ECSS standards and space engineering processes.

• Ability to structure and manage complex multi-equipment architectures.

• Cross-functional coordination and technical leadership.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and systems-thinking mindset.

• Excellent technical communication and documentation skills.

• Attention to detail and traceability.

• Ability to explain complex concepts clearly to different stakeholders.

• Leadership, teamwork, and collaboration.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced and multicultural environment.

• Professional proficiency in English.

Why Join Exotrail?

Joining Exotrail means contributing to ambitious missions that are redefining space logistics and satellite operations.

You will work alongside passionate experts in a fast-growing international company at the forefront of the New Space industry, helping develop the next generation of space mobility solutions.

What We Offer

• Company health insurance with 70% covered by Exotrail

• 50% reimbursement of public transportation costs

• Up to 2 days of remote work per week , depending on the position

• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave coverage with no seniority requirement

• Learning and development opportunities

• Well-being benefits including Moka Care, dedicated conferences, and our ExoCare Program for Moments That Matter

• ⏳ 35 days of paid leave per year (Annual Leave & RTT)

Working Environment

• Offices located in the heart of Toulouse

• Modern industrial facilities in Massy

• ☕ Free coffee, tea, and fresh fruit available on site

• International and multicultural teams

• Dynamic and rapidly growing space company

Quality of Life at Work

• Team events and afterworks

• On-site osteopathy sessions on both sites

• Collaborative and supportive work culture

Recruitment Process

Our recruitment process is designed to be efficient while giving you the opportunity to meet the key stakeholders involved in the role:

1. HR Interview with our Talent Acquisition team to discuss your background, motivations, and career aspirations.

2. Hiring Manager Interview to explore your experience, skills, and fit with the team and projects.

3. Technical Interview with our experts to assess your technical knowledge and problem-solving approach.

4. Final Interview to discuss the role, expectations, and answer any remaining questions.

We strive to provide feedback throughout the process and ensure a positive candidate experience.

We look forward to getting to know you and exploring how you can contribute to Exotrail's mission.