Drone Mission Solutions Engineer

About The Job

• 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.
• Expedite engineering solutions to the warfighter’s hardest problems via rapid development iteration, testing, and critical feedback.
• Act as 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 engineering progress, including RCA efforts on critical engineering issues and finding mechanisms to unblock functional teams.
• Embody an experimental approach to rapid validation of new algorithms and subsystems.
• Provide creative solutions to test and iterate solutions in representative conditions that mirror 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.

What You’ll Do

• Lead technical execution from vision & initial design, through prototyping and first successful testing.
• Develop & own surrogate aircraft with the goal of accelerating the ability to test algorithms in live flight.
• Develop systems that support expeditionary operation, intuitive setup and use by warfighters, and modular expansion of sensors.
• Set up 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 flight missions to meet Engineering and Program requirements.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Experience with Ardupilot / PX4
• Experience with RC systems
• Part 107 operator
• Willingness to travel

Qualifications

• 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.
• Experience with 3D printing, soldering, and component assembly.
• Ability to engage technically with mechanical, electrical, firmware, sensors, and robotics software leads.
• Ability to travel on short notice to fulfill operational needs.
• 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.
• Real-world operational experience with small UAS systems in a military context desired.