Chief Engineer

Zone 5 Technologies; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 200,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefit package

401k with company match

4 weeks of paid time off

12 annual company holidays

Job summary

Zone 5 Technologies in Fort Worth, Texas, seeks a skilled individual to lead technical development of unmanned aircraft systems. Candidates should have extensive experience in UAS development as well as a strong technical background.

The role requires developing cutting-edge solutions and mentoring engineering talent. Offering a competitive salary range of $200,000 to $250,000 USD, the position also comes with excellent benefits including a comprehensive health package and generous paid time off.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience in UAS development required.
• 5+ years in technical leadership roles essential.
• Deep understanding of flight dynamics and control systems is crucial.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical development of UAS from concept to production.
• Define system architecture for next-gen platforms.
• Interface with customers on technical matters.

Skills

Unmanned aircraft systems development

Technical leadership

Flight dynamics

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

Flight control software

Real-time embedded systems

Aerospace materials

Job description

Overview

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting‑edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology – solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next‑generation flight systems, you belong here.

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 onboard 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, 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

Pay Range

$200,000 – $250,000 USD

Benefits

• 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

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E‑Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E‑Verify: https://www.e‑verify.gov.

As set forth in Zone 5 Technologies’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under any applicable law.