Lead Deputy Chief Engineer, Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Zone 5 Technologies; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 165,000 - 220,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision

Life Insurance

401k with company match

Paid time off

Sick leave

Company holidays

Job summary

Zone 5 Technologies seeks a Deputy Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next‑generation unmanned aircraft systems. This leader will shape architecture, drive technical strategy, and coordinate across aerodynamics, autonomy, sensors, and flight controls.

The role requires 7+ years in unmanned vehicle systems, a strong engineering pedigree, and the ability to deliver programs from concept to production. A security clearance is required or the ability to obtain one.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in unmanned/autonomous vehicle systems development.
• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred).
• 3+ years in technical leadership roles with direct responsibility for system-level design.
• Experience in delivering unmanned aircraft programs from concept to production.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Assist or 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.
• Assist in mentoring and developing engineering talent across the organization.
• Guide certification and qualification activities for airworthiness and operational readiness.

Skills

Unmanned vehicle systems

System-level design

Cross-functional teams

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or Computer Science

Tools

Systems engineering tools

Hardware verification methodologies

Job description

Zone 5 Technologies seeks a Deputy Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next‑generation unmanned aircraft systems. This leader will shape architecture, drive technical strategy, and coordinate across aerodynamics, autonomy, sensors, and flight controls.

The role requires 7+ years in unmanned vehicle systems, a strong engineering pedigree, and the ability to deliver programs from concept to production. A security clearance is required or the ability to obtain one.