Lead Chief Engineer – Autonomous Aircraft Prototyping

Roboticsconnected; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 254,000 - 336,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity grants

Top-tier benefits

Job summary

Anduril Industries is a defense tech leader seeking a prototype lead for air dominance programs in Long Beach, CA. You will own end-to-end build and integration of autonomous aircraft and lead a small team of engineers and technicians.

Role requires hands-on problem solving on the factory floor and close collaboration with suppliers to deliver flight-ready vehicles. A US security clearance is required.

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading hands-on build and integration of complex aircraft or aerospace vehicles.
• Deep expertise in manufacturing and prototyping including composite fabrication and metallic structures.
• Experience moving a vehicle from detailed design release to first article and test campaign.
• Experience leading small, agile engineering and technician teams in rapid development.
• Strong foundation in mechanical/aerospace structures and systems integration.
• Expertise in Design for Manufacturing and resolving real-time production issues.

Responsibilities

• Lead prototype execution from part fabrication to flight-ready vehicle.
• Serve as the on-floor technical problem-solver for manufacturing, assembly and integration.
• Provide critical DFM feedback to ensure buildable, testable and scalable aircraft.
• Oversee fabrication, assembly, and integration of airframe structures, propulsion, avionics and flight control hardware.
• Develop and execute system integration, ground testing and vehicle checkout plans for flight tests.
• Mentor and lead a small team of engineers and technicians in a fast-paced environment.
• Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure timely, on-spec hardware delivery.

Skills

Prototype build

Manufacturing

Systems integration

Design for Manufacturing

Team leadership

Problem solving

Education

Bachelors in Aerospace/Mechanical/Manufacturing Eng

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense tech leader seeking a prototype lead for air dominance programs in Long Beach, CA. You will own end-to-end build and integration of autonomous aircraft and lead a small team of engineers and technicians.

Role requires hands-on problem solving on the factory floor and close collaboration with suppliers to deliver flight-ready vehicles. A US security clearance is required.