Chief Engineer

Zone 5 Technologies; Fort Walton Beach (FL); Hybrid; USD 200,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits

401k with company-match

4 weeks of paid time off

12 annual company holidays

Job summary

Zone 5 Technologies in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, seeks a Chief Engineer to lead the development of next-generation unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This role demands deep expertise in unmanned multi-rotor systems and advanced engineering capabilities, focusing on defining technical strategies and overseeing project execution.

Ideal candidates will have over 12 years of experience in the UAS field and a proven ability to lead technical teams across various engineering disciplines. A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are included in this hybrid position.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in unmanned aircraft systems development.
• 5+ years in technical leadership roles with system-level design responsibility.
• Deep understanding of flight dynamics and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical development of UAS from concept to production.
• Define system architecture and technical requirements for platforms.
• Oversee integration with aircraft systems and maintain technical standards.

Skills

Technical leadership

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Master's or PhD (preferred)

Tools

Flight control software

Systems engineering tools

Job description

Overview

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United States

Zone 5 Technologies is redefining unmanned aircraft systems with autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology. We are looking for exceptional talent to join us in building the future of UAS capabilities.

Zone 5 is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next-generation unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This role requires deep expertise in unmanned multi-rotor systems with advanced software or hardware engineering capabilities. The Chief Engineer will drive technical strategy, architecture, and execution of UAS platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end technical development of UAS from concept through production
• Define system architecture and technical requirements for next-generation platforms including aerodynamic design, propulsion, guidance, and payload integration
• Oversee integration with aircraft systems including mechanical interfaces, communication links, and launch enclosures
• Drive technical decision-making across multidisciplinary teams including aerodynamics, flight controls, autonomy, sensors, and communications
• Establish and maintain technical standards, design processes, and verification methodologies
• Lead technical risk management and trade studies for performance, cost, and schedule optimization
• Interface with customers, stakeholders, and program leadership on technical matters
• Mentor and develop engineering talent across the organization
• Guide certification and qualification activities for airworthiness and operational readiness

Required Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in unmanned aircraft systems development
• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred)
• 5+ years in technical leadership roles with direct responsibility for system-level design
• Proven track record of delivering unmanned aircraft programs from concept to production
• Deep understanding of aircraft flight dynamics, guidance, navigation, and control systems
• Active or ability to obtain security clearance
• Strong communication skills with ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with systems thinking mindset

Technical Background (Software)

• Expert-level proficiency in flight control software architecture and real-time embedded systems
• Expert-level proficiency with on-board avionics, navigation, communications
• Experience with path planning algorithms and mission management software
• Strong background in software-hardware integration for avionics and flight systems
• Proficiency in model-based design, simulation, and software verification/validation
• Knowledge of DO-178C or equivalent safety-critical software standards

Technical Background (Hardware)

• Experience with mechanical/electrical systems integration including actuators, power systems, and thermal management
• Strong background in design for manufacturability and producibility
• Proficiency in systems engineering tools and hardware verification methodologies
• Knowledge of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and qualification testing

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with single-use munitions or attritable systems
• Knowledge of datalinks, RF communications, and network-centric operations
• Experience with digital engineering and model-based systems engineering (MBSE)
• Experience with swarm coordination, collaborative autonomy, or multi-agent systems
• Knowledge of modular design approaches and open systems architecture
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and military airworthiness certification
• Understanding of counter-UAS systems and electronic warfare

Compensation

Pay range for this role: $200,000 - $250,000 USD

What’s in It for You

• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company-match
• 4 weeks of paid time off each year
• 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

This is a hybrid position in Fort Walton Beach, FL. If hired, are you willing to relocate for the position?

Equal Employment Opportunity

Zone 5 Technologies is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of protected status in accordance with applicable law.