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Chief Engineer - Tactical Effects

Anduril· Tactical Recon & Strike : Precision Engagement Systems Engineering
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Costa Mesa, CA$191k - $253kfull-timePosted 2w ago

About the role

Lead engineering for UAV system upgrades, conceptual drone designs, and integration of complex payloads, with a focus on reliability, testing, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams in Anduril’s Tactical Recon & Strike group.

Responsibilities

  • Conceptualize system architecture for upgrades and enhancements to existing vehicle systems
  • Conceptual designs of small drones including sizing, system performance and initial prototyping
  • Layout system design plans and interfaces for new UAV products and platforms
  • Work within a team of multidisciplinary engineers and specialists throughout the life of UAV design and integration process
  • Manage tactical engineering efforts, interfacing between different engineering and test disciplines
  • Draft and develop test plans for critical subsystems, and support vehicle level acceptance testing
  • Develop interface controls for partners and customers for hardware, software, and electrical integration of complex and unique payloads with existing and new Anduril UAVs
  • Achieve maximum uptime by leading vehicle data analysis efforts to identify performance trends and develop predictive failure models
  • Support build and benchtop testing of new vehicle systems
  • Conduct hands-on UAV testing with occasional travel

Qualifications

  • 7-10 years of industry experience including but not limited to system architecture
  • Familiarity with concepts of systems engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software development, and control theory
  • Demonstrated experience with conceptual design and vehicle system architecture
  • Proven track record of progressing from clean sheet design to functioning hardware
  • Hands-on build and prototyping of complex robotic or aircraft systems
  • A passion for systems development, integration, and testing
  • Knowledge of electronics troubleshooting and ability to use basic test equipment
  • Extremely organized and detail-oriented
  • Excellent verbal & written communication skills
  • A sincere commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture
  • Ability to travel as required for test planning and execution
  • Must be able to obtain and hold a U.S. Top Secret security clearance

Skills

Required:System architectureMultidisciplinary collaborationTest planning and execution
Nice to have:Data analysis and predictive maintenance

Benefits

  • Top-tier benefits for full-time employees
  • Comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees)
  • Highly competitive equity grants included in the majority of full-time offers
Last updated Oct 7, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About Anduril

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