Principal Integration Engineer – Defense Programs

Hawthorn Composites; Dayton (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge technology firm located in Dayton, OH is seeking a Principal Unmanned Aerial System Integration Engineer. This position serves as the senior technical authority responsible for integrating advanced unmanned aircraft systems into production and operational environments. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in UAS integration and will take on leadership responsibilities as programs expand. This role requires a focus on successful transition processes and maintaining airworthiness standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in unmanned aircraft systems integration.
• Ability to lead technical teams effectively.
• Knowledge of aerospace standards and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Serve as technical authority for UAS integration.
• Establish integration strategies and technical standards.

Skills

UAS System Integration

Technical Leadership

Configuration Control

Job description

Location: Dayton, OH
Reports To: CEO
Employment Type: Full-Time
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance required

Position Summary

The Principal Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Integration Engineer serves as the senior technical authority responsible for the integration of a third-party designed unmanned aircraft system into company production, test, and delivery into operational environments in support of U.S. Department of War programs.

This role is initially focused on direct technical execution combined with oversight of integration activities, ensuring successful transition of manufacturing, integration, test, and acceptance processes from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) to the company’s facility. As programs mature and production capability scales, the position is expected to evolve toward a predominantly leadership-focused role, emphasizing technical oversight, team leadership, and strategic integration planning.

The role acts as the primary engineering interface with the OEM that retains design authority and is accountable for duplicating full system capability at the company’s site while maintaining configuration control, airworthiness, and mission readiness.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Authority & Integration Leadership

• Serve as the Engineer and technical authority for UAS system integration and manufacturing transition activities.
• Establish system integration strategies, technical standards, and best practices to support scalable production and long-term sustainment.