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.
We are seeking a highly motivated Deputy Chief Engineer of Test with a strong emphasis on aerodynamics and aircraft design, specifically in the developmental testing of a revolutionary Group 5 UAS. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in test engineering, early prototype development, and aircraft design principles. You will collaborate closely with program leadership and various cross-department teams to build a focused team dedicated to solving complex problems and transforming the industry. This role entails ownership of planning, coordination, execution, and reporting across all facets of the test program.
The Test and Evaluation team at Anduril operates across a wide spectrum of products and business lines, conducting full system-level development testing, new production acceptance testing, and sub-component qualification testing. If you are passionate about working in an innovative and fast-paced environment where your contributions will have a significant impact, this is an excellent opportunity.
What You’ll Do- Lead principal-level development activities for the Group 5 UAS with a focus on aerodynamic testing, aircraft design, resource planning, ground and flight test execution, initial issue investigation, and process improvement.
- Collaborate with a team of flight test engineers, functional engineers, and program representatives to conduct aerodynamic ground and flight test events at both private and government-owned test ranges.
- Collect aerodynamic and design-related test data, performing initial data analysis to evaluate the performance and compliance of the system under test.
- Work closely with engineering teams to develop aerodynamic and design requirements, and discuss test results, including data collection and observations.
- Contribute to design reviews and provide insights on aerodynamic performance, stability, and control characteristics to inform design decisions.
- Maintain safety protocols in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
- 10+ years of experience working on developmental aircraft, weapons, or missile systems, with a strong emphasis on aerodynamics and aircraft design.
- Bachelor's degree in a related technical discipline from an accredited institution, or equivalent engineering experience.
- Extensive experience as a test conductor or test director for developmental aircraft, weapons, or missile systems, with a focus on aerodynamics and design.
- Test engineering experience with developmental systems of manned and/or unmanned aircraft, including requirements development, test planning, execution, and reporting.
- Strong background in aircraft design principles, aerodynamics, performance loads, dynamics, propulsion, or electrical systems.
- Comprehensive understanding of engineering concepts, principles, codes, and theory; demonstrated broad application of these concepts in related technical fields.
- Familiarity with MIL-STD-882E, MIL-STD-516C, MIL-STD-1553, MIL-STD-1760, AS5653, and other relevant standards.
- Knowledge of the National Airspace System, government restricted airspace, and UAS operating rules and regulations.
- Ability to quickly grasp new concepts, apply them accurately, and organize, schedule, and coordinate work phases effectively.
- Proficient in computer and documentation tools.
- Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team on complex engineering tasks.
- Experience with large aircraft development and collaboration with the Department of Defense (DoD).
- Willingness to work extended hours as needed.
- Ability to travel for test planning and execution.
- Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.
- Experience with software coding or scripting in programming languages such as Go, Java, C++, Python, or JavaScript.
- A proactive approach to problem-solving and a bias for action.
- Experience managing individuals or teams.
- Previous involvement in large UAS development projects.
- Experience working within a Combined Test Force or equivalent environment.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
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.
The recruiter assigned to this role can share more information about the specific compensation and benefit details associated with this role during the hiring process.
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.
Top Skills
Anduril Costa Mesa, California, USA Office
Anduril HQ is located in sunny Costa Mesa, California. Once a working newsroom, printing press and distribution facility for the LA Times, our office — dubbed “The Press” — has robust facilities for software & hardware engineering, business development and mission operations, G&A and more!
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