Rapid Integration & Test Engineer

Slope; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 99,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Anduril Industries in Costa Mesa is seeking a Rapid Integration Engineer tasked with integrating hardware and software onto unmanned vehicles and contributing to the rapid prototyping of autonomous systems. The role demands close collaboration with cross-functional teams and the ability to lead the design, construction, and testing of UAS prototypes.

A Bachelor's degree in engineering is required, along with expertise in autopilot systems and rapid prototyping. This position offers a salary range of $99,000 — $130,000 USD and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field required.
• 3+ years of experience with open source autopilot systems.
• Ability to travel for project planning.
• Experience with rapid prototyping and composite materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and integration of UAS prototypes.
• Work with engineers to prototype and test hardware solutions.
• Conduct performance evaluations and develop test plans.

Skills

Integration of hardware and software systems

Open source autopilot systems

3D printing and laser cutting

Communication and interpersonal abilities

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline

Tools

Python

C++

ROS

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century’s most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril’s family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting‑edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.

The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril is integral to our mission, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. Our team specializes in a broad spectrum of testing activities, including developmental testing using surrogate vehicles, and is at the forefront of testing approaches—particularly in the domain of mission autonomy systems.

As our team expands, we are seeking a Rapid Integration Engineer to focus on the challenges of rapid prototyping and contribute to the iterative advancement of Anduril’s broad range of autonomous systems.

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated rapid integration and test engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for integrating hardware and software systems onto unmanned vehicles, and working closely with cross‑functional teams to rapidly prototype and iterate on hardware and software solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Systems Integration:
  • Lead the design, construction, and testing of UAS prototypes, efficiently transforming concepts into functional early-stage products.
  • Integrate hardware components onto unmanned vehicles, including sensors, actuators, and control systems.
  • Integrate electronic components and ensure seamless communication between hardware and software systems.
• Collaboration:
  • Work with mechanical, software, and systems engineers to prototype and test new hardware and software solutions.
• Testing & Evaluation:
  • Conduct feasibility studies, simulations, and performance evaluations to optimize hardware designs.
  • Develop and execute test plans to validate hardware functionality and reliability.
  • Identify and troubleshoot hardware issues, implementing effective solutions.
• Innovation & Documentation:
  • Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies to drive innovation.
  • Document design processes, test results, and maintain detailed engineering records.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution.
• 3+ years of in‑depth knowledge of open source autopilot systems and ArduPilot stack, including integration, configuration, customization, and testing of unmanned vehicles.
• Willingness and ability to travel as necessary for project planning, testing, and execution.
• Experience with rapid prototyping, 3D printing, laser cutting, and working with composite materials.
• Demonstrated application of fundamentals of aerodynamics, flight performance, structures, electrical, and GNC.
• Comprehensive understanding of the National Airspace System and UAS operating regulations.
• Practical experience in the operation, testing, and development of small UAS or drones.
• Expertise in engineering principles, codes, theories, and a broad application of complex technical concepts.
• Ability to quickly grasp new concepts and apply them effectively, and the capacity to organize and coordinate work effectively.
• Proficiency with computers and strong documentation skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Self‑motivated with the capability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Flexibility to work extended hours as required by project demands.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in engineering, robotics, computer science, or a related technical or management field.
• Hands‑on experience with remote control aircraft or UAVs, including piloting, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of software development practices and programming languages pertinent to autonomy and robotics (e.g., Python, C++, ROS).
• FAA Part 107 certification.

US Salary Range

$99,000 — $130,000 USD

Benefits

At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you’re supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.