Chief Drone Hardware Architect

Applied Electrodynamics, Inc.; Sunnyvale (CA); Hybrid; USD 270,000 - 355,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Intuition, Inc. is seeking a Head of Drone Hardware to lead a multi-disciplinary hardware team responsible for airframe, mechanical structures, and full system integration.

You will own the hardware roadmap, set technical direction, and drive development from concept to high-volume production in a fast-paced environment. The role requires 15+ years in hardware engineering with 10+ years leading teams, and hands-on expertise in ruggedized hardware, DFM/DFA, and flight/field testing.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading and scaling hardware engineering teams.
• Background in mechanical engineering and product design for rugged systems.
• Experience guiding hardware through full lifecycle from concept to production.

Responsibilities

• Lead and scale the drone hardware organization across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Own hardware roadmap and architecture for drone products.
• Drive designs through full lifecycle from prototyping to high-volume production.
• Collaborate with customers to align requirements and ensure delivery commitments.
• Establish processes to meet aggressive timelines and ensure manufacturability.

Skills

Hardware engineering leadership

Mechanical design leadership

Cross-functional management

Customer-facing engagement

DFM/DFA expertise

Education

BS/MS/PhD in Mechanical/Design

Tools

Mechanical design tools

Thermal management

Job description

Applied Intuition, Inc. is seeking a Head of Drone Hardware to lead a multi-disciplinary hardware team responsible for airframe, mechanical structures, and full system integration.

You will own the hardware roadmap, set technical direction, and drive development from concept to high-volume production in a fast-paced environment. The role requires 15+ years in hardware engineering with 10+ years leading teams, and hands-on expertise in ruggedized hardware, DFM/DFA, and flight/field testing.