Deputy Director Flight Ops — UAS & Autonomy Programs

Slope; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 220,000 - 292,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

Anduril Industries seeks a Deputy Director of Flight Operations to lead developmental flight test programs for new UAS platforms. You will guide test planning, execution, and regulatory compliance while coordinating with leadership and cross-functional teams.

The role requires deep expertise in flight operations, significant leadership ability, and ability to travel as needed in a fast-paced defense tech environment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in flight operations and/or test management for developmental aircraft and payload integration.
• Experience with large UAS development.
• Knowledge of DCMA INST 8210, MIL-STD-516, 14 CFR, and related T&E guiding documents.
• Strong understanding of engineering concepts with broad application in related technical specialties.
• Ability to quickly understand and apply new concepts, organize work phases, and develop solutions to complex problems.
• Experience working with the Department of War (DoW).
• Strong leadership skills with a proven track record of team management.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple priorities.
• Willingness to travel as required.
• Must possess and maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.
• In this role, you will be subject to pre-employment and randomized substance screening, as required by the Company.

Responsibilities

• Develop flight operation strategies aligned with company leadership directives.
• Oversee the integration, planning, execution, and operational oversight of flight tests and related activities.
• Collaborate with test engineers and control room personnel to provide input on test event planning, preparation, execution, and reporting.
• Navigate a complex product development roadmap, focusing on system integration, strategy development, and program execution.
• Facilitate engineering reviews and ensure effective communication between Anduril and customer representatives.
• Provide input and oversight for essential documentation, including system manuals, checklists, and acceptance procedures.
• Coordinate project and test progress status with program leadership and manage resource constraints.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies during flight operations.
• Support hardware and software testing, emphasizing resource planning and process improvement.
• Manage and mentor flight operations staff, including pilots, crew, and support personnel.

Skills

Flight ops leadership

Test management

Large UAS

DoD regulations

Security clearance

Communication

Travel readiness

Job description

Anduril Industries seeks a Deputy Director of Flight Operations to lead developmental flight test programs for new UAS platforms. You will guide test planning, execution, and regulatory compliance while coordinating with leadership and cross-functional teams.

The role requires deep expertise in flight operations, significant leadership ability, and ability to travel as needed in a fast-paced defense tech environment.