Crew Chief

Mach Industries; Huntington Beach (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

Equity

Paid time off

Professional development

Job summary

Mach Industries is seeking a field operations expert to lead UAS testing and deployment across domestic and international missions. You will own fleet readiness, coordinate maintenance, and ensure airworthiness while collaborating with operations, engineering and manufacturing.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in autonomous systems field operations, experience with ArduPilot/PX4 and mission planning software, and a willingness to travel.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in autonomous systems field operations.
• Experience with ArduPilot and PX4.
• Proficiency with mission planning software (QGroundControl or Mission Planner).
• Willingness to travel internationally and domestically.

Responsibilities

• Own fleet readiness and maintenance systems across UAS platforms.
• Lead maintenance execution, troubleshooting, and repair workflows.
• Maintain configuration control across vehicle hardware/software revisions.
• Oversee post-manufacturing inspection and flight acceptance.
• Serve as primary interface between operations, engineering, and manufacturing.
• Manage field operations documentation and records.
• Lead and develop field drone technicians.
• Support domestic and international field operations and logistics.
• Track and report fleet performance and reliability trends.

Skills

Autonomous systems

Field operations

UAS maintenance

International travel

Mission planning

ArduPilot/PX4

Tools

QGroundControl

Mission Planner

ArduPilot

PX4

Job description

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach conducts tests and demonstrations with UAS platforms in various stages of development. This position will specialize in field testing and operating UAS. Responsibilities will include assisting with field exercise plans, test and operations procedures, field operations execution, and pre- and post-operations reviews. Operations are conducted domestically and internationally. This role serves as the primary subject-matter expert for assigned UAS platforms, owning vehicle-level readiness, integration state, and safe execution in the field.

Key Responsibilities

• Own fleet readiness and maintenance systems, ensuring all UAS meet flight and operational standards
• Lead maintenance execution, troubleshooting, and repair workflows to sustain system reliability
• Maintain strict configuration control across all vehicle hardware/software revisions and documentation
• Oversee post-manufacturing inspection and flight acceptance, validating airworthiness and deployment readiness
• Serve as the primary interface between operations, engineering, and manufacturing to drive issue resolution and improvements
• Manage technical documentation and records, including maintenance logs, SOPs, and configuration tracking
• Lead and develop field drone technicians, ensuring standardized execution and accountability
• Support and oversee domestic and international field operations, ensuring mission and logistics readiness
• Track and report fleet performance and reliability trends to inform continuous improvement

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience with autonomous systems field operations and capability to track high volume of vehicles
• Experience with mission planning software (QGroundControl or Mission Planner)
• Experience with Ardupilot or PX4
• Experience with in-field operational troubleshooting
• Experience in international field operations and logistics for vehicles
• Ability to travel internationally and domestically

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading or supervising UAS field operations teams, including tasking, accountability, and performance management
• Background in aircraft maintenance, aviation systems, or military/defense operations, with a strong understanding of airworthiness and operational standards
• Experience with data analysis, reliability tracking, or failure trend identification to inform maintenance and design decisions
• Ability to operate effectively in ambiguous, fast-paced environments, with a bias toward ownership and continuous improvement
• Active security clearance or ability to obtain one

Additional Requirements

• Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Pay Range

$40—$50 USD

Key Elements Of Our Compensation Philosophy

• Competitive Salaries: We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location.
• Performance-Based Incentives: Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel.
• Equity Participation: We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company.
• Benefit Packages: Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office.
• Professional Development: We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth.
• Transparency: We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect.

By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success.

Data Privacy

To view Mach Industries candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://machindustries.com/privacy-policy.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!