Drone Mission Support Specialist

Anduril Industries•Costa Mesa, CA

About The Position

Accountable for the success and execution of critical early-stage software and hardware efforts, inclusive of new drone products and expanding feature sets across a fielded fleet. Focus on rapid development, integration, and operations of drones. Drive & de-risk strategic solutions to ambiguous problems in partnership with operations members and internal functional teams. You will be responsible for expediting engineering solutions to the warfighter’s hardest problems via rapid development iteration, testing, and critical feedback. You will be a pilot, engineer, innovator, and operations specialist for Anduril’s autonomous systems. This is a tactical role - requiring persistent and regimented testing that meets the need of fast-paced development efforts while maintaining safety. Rapid Prototyping & Validation Unblock enginering progress. This spans from RCA efforts on critical engineering issues to finding mechanisms to unblock the functional teams where stuck. Embody an experimental approach to rapid validation of new algorithms and subsystems. Provide creative solutions to test and iterate our solutions in representative conditions that mirror our customers and the evolving battlefield. Operational Testing & Mission Validation Maintain an organized approach to regular testing and feedback Create, validate and deliver test points for a variety of stakeholders across the TRS organization

Requirements

Experience with Ardupilot / PX4
Experience with RC systems
Part 107 operator
Willingness to travel (<30%)
Basic understanding of Aerodynamics, Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), Control Actuation Servos, and how those disciplines relate to overall system performance.
Experience with data analysis, rapid prototyping, and early-stage customer deployment
Hands-on build and prototyping of complex robotic systems
Ability to engage technically with mechanical, electrical, firmware, sensors, and robotics software leads
Travel on short notice to fulfill operational needs if and when those needs arise.
High ownership, mission-oriented mentality. Desire to see the product meet the end need of the customer.
A sincere commitment to a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture
Desire to obtain and hold a U.S. Secret security clearance
Ability to travel as required for test planning and execution

Nice To Haves

Real-world operational experience with small UAS systems in a military context desired

Responsibilities

Lead technical execution from vision & initial design, through prototyping and first successful testing
Develop & own surrogate aircraft with the goal of accelerating our ability to test algorithms in live flight
Develop systems that support expeditionary operation, intuitive setup and use by warfighters, and modular expansion of sensors
Setup trades to enable exploration of early designs while working closely with technical SMEs and Business Development teams to find the right solution for current and future gaps in capability
Operate at the intersection of software, hardware, and testing helping to craft a system level architecture that supports a robust and cost effective design
Execute and support prototype and low-rate production articles and subsystem/system level test efforts
Support remote troubleshooting and operation of deployed systems
Prepare mission cards and assist in planning the flight missions to meet Engineering and Program requirements.

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.