Air Vehicle Lead, Maneuver Dominance

Anduril Industries•Costa Mesa, CA

18h

About The Position

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. ABOUT THE JOB Anduril is seeking a Lead Air Vehicle Engineer to join the Maneuver Dominance team at our Costa Mesa HQ to lead the convergence of technical efforts in developing an advanced airborne platform. This individual will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of vertical flight focusing on air vehicle development and integrating mission autonomy to meet the evolving demands of defense capabilities. Here you will work on core product development for unmanned rotorcraft and complex systems, including but not limited to aircraft configuration, composites, mechanisms, and structures. The role requires high ownership and frequent collaboration with other core disciplines. The ideal candidate would be practical, hands-on, and a self starter. High growth potential is possible as well as additional leadership opportunities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, 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 VTOL platforms.
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, 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
Ability to travel up to 50% depending on the product lifecycle

Nice To Haves

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.
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.

Responsibilities

Execute rapid evaluation of engineering concepts across a wide range of aerospace disciplines
Perform trade studies and physics-based analysis of blue-sky engineering problems
Advanced design, configuration, implementation of a highly complex advanced air vehicle
Operate with extreme visibility and exercise a vast level of professional autonomy
Lead design reviews, run analysis, interface with vendors, define and execute hardware test plans
Build prototypes, analyze failures, and transition successful projects into production
Support critical software and hardware demonstrations with customers as needed
Use first principles physics as a basis for every decision
Ability to provide input across a variety of technical domains not limited to: aerodynamics, flight dynamics, GNC, aeroelastic, loads and dynamics

Benefits

Healthcare Benefits
US Roles: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you.
UK & AUS Roles: We cover full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents.
IE Roles: We offer an annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents.
Additional Benefits
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.
Retirement Savings Plan
US Roles: Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options.
UK & IE Roles: Pension plan with employer match.
AUS Roles: Superannuation plan.