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Chief Engineer, Navy Airpower

Anduril· Air Dominance & Strike : Autonomous Airpower Engineering : Chief Engineering
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Costa Mesa, CA$253k - $336kFull-timePosted 1mo ago

About the role

Technical leader responsible for ownership of the technical baseline and delivery of airborne systems, from concept through flight test, for Navy/DoD aircraft programs.

Responsibilities

  • Lead Technical Execution: Own the technical baseline and lead a multi-disciplinary engineering team (aerodynamics, structures, GNC, propulsion, avionics, software) through detailed design, system integration, and verification.
  • Oversee Prototype Build & Integration: Coordinate fabrication and assembly of prototype and development articles, resolving engineering challenges during build.
  • Drive the Test Campaign: Plan and execute a comprehensive test program (ground test, SIL/HIL integration, developmental flight test) to validate performance and expand operational envelope.
  • Manage System Design & Architecture: Guide critical design trades, sub-system optimization, and interface management for cohesive air vehicle architecture.
  • Ensure Airworthiness & Safety: Serve as technical authority for system safety and develop data/artifacts for military flight releases.
  • Problem Solve & Troubleshoot: Lead root-cause analysis and implement solutions during integration and testing.
  • Prepare for Production: Partner with manufacturing to ensure DFM/DFA and smooth transition to production.
  • Support deployed flight test and demonstration activities at customer/test sites.

Qualifications

  • Experience as a Chief Engineer, IPT Lead, or senior technical leader on a carrier-based Navy aircraft program.
  • Deep hands-on experience leading a multi-disciplinary team through at least one major phase of aircraft EMD (detailed design, prototype build, or flight test).
  • Proven track record taking a complex aircraft system from design into build and successful flight testing.
  • Strong technical foundation across aerodynamics, structures, GNC, propulsion, systems integration with emphasis on carrier suitability.
  • Strong understanding of the "why" behind Vehicle and Systems design.
  • Experience on mission-critical DoD or advanced development aircraft programs.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering field.
  • Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.

Skills

Required:Leadership of multi-disciplinary engineering teamsSystem design and architectureAirworthiness and safety governancePrototype build and integrationTest planning and execution

Benefits

  • Top-tier benefits for full-time employees (health, recovery, and related support)
Last updated Sep 30, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Anduril

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