Head of Platform Engineering

Turion Space • Irvine, CA

22h • $190,000 - $270,000

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced leader to be our Head of Platform Engineering to lead the design, development, and evolution of our mission-critical platform infrastructure. This role is pivotal in ensuring secure, scalable, and resilient systems that power next-generation aerospace and defense programs. You will manage a high-performing team, drive platform strategy, and maintain hands-on technical expertise across all components.

Requirements

• 5-7 years in platform engineering and 3-4+ experience in leadership roles.
• Proven experience managing technical teams and delivering large-scale platforms.
• Hands-on expertise with cloud-native architecture and security frameworks.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to balance strategic vision with tactical execution.
• Familiarity with zero-trust architecture and advanced security models.

Nice To Haves

• Active DoD clearance or ability to obtain one.
• Strong knowledge of DoD compliance requirements.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or highly regulated industries.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of platform engineers.
• Establish performance goals, conduct reviews, and foster a culture of innovation and accountability.
• Define and execute the platform roadmap aligned with company objectives and DoD compliance requirements. Assist in scaling the Platform Department with respect to roadmap and objectives.
• Drive adoption of modern technologies and best practices for scalability, reliability, and security.
• Partner with CIO, Ground Software, Flight Software, Information Security, and IT to ensure seamless integration of platform capabilities.
• Communicate platform vision and progress to executive leadership and stakeholders.
• Maintain deep technical knowledge of platform components including: Cloud and on-prem infrastructure Container orchestration (Kubernetes, Docker) CI/CD pipelines Identity and access management Observability and monitoring systems
• Ensure platform capabilities are compliant with DoD cybersecurity standards (e.g., NIST 800-53, FedRAMP, CMMC)
• Oversee audits and certifications required for defense programs.

Benefits

• Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents. ​
• Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan to help you plan for your future. ​
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge. ​
• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.
• Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment. ​

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed