Lead Flight Operations & Test Strategy – TS Cleared

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

Benefits offered by this job

Equity grants

Top-tier benefits

Job summary

Anduril Industries in Costa Mesa, CA, is seeking a Deputy Director of Flight Operations to lead developmental test programs for large UAS and VTOL platforms, collaborating with program leadership and cross-functional teams to deliver safe, compliant flight test activities.

You will mentor flight operations staff, shape test strategies, oversee planning and execution, and ensure regulatory compliance while navigating a fast-paced, high-stakes defense 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 leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement flight operation strategies aligned with leadership directives.
• Oversee integration, planning, execution, and oversight of flight tests and related activities.
• Collaborate with test engineers and control room personnel on test planning, preparation, execution, and reporting.
• Navigate complex product development roadmaps focusing on system integration and program execution.
• Facilitate engineering reviews and ensure clear communication with customers.
• Provide input for documentation like system manuals, checklists, and acceptance procedures.
• Coordinate project and test progress with program leadership and manage resources.
• Ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and company policies during flight operations.
• Support hardware and software testing with emphasis on process improvement.
• Manage and mentor flight operations staff including pilots and support personnel.

Skills

Flight operations

Test management

Leadership

Communication

Travel readiness

Job description

Anduril Industries in Costa Mesa, CA, is seeking a Deputy Director of Flight Operations to lead developmental test programs for large UAS and VTOL platforms, collaborating with program leadership and cross-functional teams to deliver safe, compliant flight test activities.

You will mentor flight operations staff, shape test strategies, oversee planning and execution, and ensure regulatory compliance while navigating a fast-paced, high-stakes defense environment.