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Anduril Industries · 2 days ago

Lead Airframe Engineer, Maneuver Dominance

Costa Mesa, CA

Full-time

Onsite

Lead/Staff

$191K/yr - $253K/yr

8+ years exp

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company committed to transforming military capabilities with advanced technology. They are seeking a Lead Airframe Engineer to lead the development of an advanced airborne VTOL platform, focusing on air vehicle development and integrating mission autonomy to meet defense demands.

AerospaceArtificial Intelligence (AI)GovernmentMilitaryNational Security

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Build, mentor, and manage a diverse team of aerospace engineers, ensuring that their expertise is synergistically aligned with the project’s strategic objectives, engineering milestones, and overall air vehicle design efforts

Execute rapid evaluation of engineering concepts in a wide range of fields

Perform trade studies and physics-based analysis of blue-sky engineering problems

Design, implementation, and test of complex air vehicle

High level system ownership with large levels of professional autonomy

Lead design reviews, run analysis, visit vendors, define and execute hardware test plans

Build prototypes, analyze failures, and transition successful projects into production

Support critical hardware demonstrations with customers as needed

Travel to test sites as needed

Use first principles physics as a basis for every decision

Wear many hats

Qualification

Aerospace EngineeringVTOL Platform DevelopmentFlight Science ProficiencyTechnical LeadershipAutonomous Systems DevelopmentAircraft Design PrinciplesProject ManagementStakeholder ManagementCommunication SkillsTeam Management

Required

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineer, Robotics, Physics, or related technical discipline

Minimum of 8 years in technical leadership roles such as Technical Program Manager, Chief Engineer, Lead Engineer or similarly relevant position

Leadership experience in engineering team management and project execution for aerospace or defense sectors

Deep experience developing rotary-wing VTOL platforms

Advanced proficiency in flight science skillsets and guiding the interrelated disciplines of aerodynamics, flight dynamics, GNC, aeroelastic, loads and dynamics

Broad exposure to aircraft concepts, design layouts, static stability, control architectures and propulsion concepts

Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams, fostering a collaborative environment that drives innovation and project success

Strong project management skills, with experience using tools like JIRA and Confluence, and knowledge of Agile and Waterfall methodologies

Exceptional communication and stakeholder management abilities, capable of engaging effectively with both technical teams and non-technical partners

Knowledge of aircraft design principles, including familiarity with vertical lift, eVTOL and hybrid-electric propulsion systems, as well as aircraft build and integration, and flight test execution/oversight

Hands-on experience with the development and deployment of autonomous systems, particularly in rotorcraft or large UAS

Eligible to obtain a U.S. Secret security clearance

Preferred

Direct experience with autonomous systems, specifically with the development and integration of rotorcraft or larger UAS

Deep familiarity with unmanned aircraft, autonomous systems, robotics, aircraft design, particularly eVTOL and hybrid-electric propulsion systems

Knowledgeable in the nuanced integration of complex systems, such as launched effects, into aerial platforms, ensuring system compatibility and performance

An extensive network within the aerospace industry, enabling effective collaboration and leveraging partnerships for product development

Familiarity with Defense Acquisition Processes and a clear understanding of key review stages and compliance requirements

Relevant professional certifications that underscore a commitment to continuous learning and application of industry best practices

Customer-facing experience with a proven ability to lead high-profile programs and navigate complex client relationships with confidence and authority

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you.

We cover full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents.

We offer an annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents.

Income Protection: Anduril covers life and disability insurance for all employees.

Generous time off: Highly competitive PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December. Caregiver & Wellness Leave is available to care for family members, bond with a new baby, or address your own medical needs.

Family Planning & Parenting Support: Coverage for fertility treatments (e.g., IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carriers, along with resources to support you and your partner from planning to parenting.

Mental Health Resources: Access free mental health resources 24/7, including therapy and life coaching. Additional work-life services, such as legal and financial support, are also available.

Professional Development: Annual reimbursement for professional development

Commuter Benefits: Company-funded commuter benefits based on your region.

Relocation Assistance: Available depending on role eligibility.

Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options.

Pension plan with employer match.

Superannuation plan.