Executive Hardware Leadership Recruiter

Anduril; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Anduril Industries in Costa Mesa, CA is seeking a senior leadership recruiter to lead executive-level searches across Hardware Platform teams, partnering with the C-suite and founders to shape the company’s leadership talent.

You will own end-to-end searches, collaborate with engineering VPs, map the market, and design compelling compensation packages that align with Anduril’s mission. This role blends strategic advisory with hands-on talent execution in a fast-paced defense-tech environment.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of recruiting experience, with 3+ years specifically focused on executive, leadership, or principal-level searches.
• Proven track record hiring leadership in complex engineering domains (hardware, aerospace, robotics, systems, manufacturing).
• Experience advising C-suite, VP and founder-level stakeholders on hiring strategy and market realities.
• Deep understanding of executive compensation models, including equity valuations and offers.
• Exceptional assessment skills for leadership capability, strategic thinking and cultural fit.
• Professional, discreet communication with high-profile candidates.
• Experience managing highly confidential searches with discretion.
• Experience in high-growth startups or defense/tech sectors is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Own and execute end-to-end leadership searches (Director, VP, Principal) across Hardware Platform teams.
• Establish trust and advise C-suite executives, founders, and VPs on leadership talent strategy.
• Conduct market mapping, competitor analysis, and talent intelligence for passive leaders.
• Deliver a high-touch, personalized experience for leadership candidates from outreach to onboarding.
• Design, negotiate, and close complex executive compensation packages.
• Understand Anduril's product positioning and culture to pitch leadership opportunities.
• Track executive pipeline metrics and provide updates to executive stakeholders.
• Leverage networking and sourcing to engage top-tier, passive industry leaders.

Skills

Executive recruiting

Stakeholder management

Market mapping

Compensation negotiations

Discretion

C-suite partnership

Job description

Anduril Industries in Costa Mesa, CA is seeking a senior leadership recruiter to lead executive-level searches across Hardware Platform teams, partnering with the C-suite and founders to shape the company’s leadership talent.

You will own end-to-end searches, collaborate with engineering VPs, map the market, and design compelling compensation packages that align with Anduril’s mission. This role blends strategic advisory with hands-on talent execution in a fast-paced defense-tech environment.