Chief Engineer Fort Walton , Florida Fort Worth, Texas; San Luis Obispo, C

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United States;
Fort Worth, Texas;
San Luis Obispo, California

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

We are seeking an exceptional Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next-generation systems. This role demands deep expertise in missile systems with either advanced software or hardware engineering capabilities. The Chief Engineer will drive technical strategy, architecture, and execution for air-launched platforms.

• Lead end-to-end technical development of air-launched unmanned systems from concept through production
• Define system architecture and technical requirements for next-generation platforms including aerodynamic design, propulsion, guidance, and payload integration
• Oversee integration with aircraft systems including mechanical interfaces, communication links, and launch mechanisms
• Drive technical decision-making across multidisciplinary teams including aerodynamics, flight controls, autonomy, sensors, and communications
• Establish and maintain technical standards, design processes, and verification methodologies
• Lead technical risk management and trade studies for performance, cost, and schedule optimization
• Interface with customers, stakeholders, and program leadership on technical matters
• Mentor and develop engineering talent across the organization
• Guide certification and qualification activities for airworthiness and operational readiness

• 12+ years of experience in unmanned aircraft systems development
• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred)
• 5+ years in technical leadership roles with direct responsibility for system-level design
• Proven track record of delivering unmanned aircraft programs from concept to production
• Deep understanding of aircraft flight dynamics, guidance, navigation, and control systems
• Experience with air-vehicle integration including launch, separation, and flight envelope analysis
• Active or ability to obtain security clearance
• Strong communication skills with ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
• Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with systems thinking mindset

• Expert-level proficiency in flight control software architecture and real-time embedded systems
• Expert-level proficiency with on board Avionics, Navigation, Communications
• Experience with path planning algorithms, and mission management software
• Strong background in software-hardware integration for avionics and flight systems
• Proficiency in model-based design, simulation, and software verification/validation
• Knowledge of DO-178C or equivalent safety-critical software standards

• Experience with mechanical/electrical systems integration including actuators, power systems, and thermal management
• Strong background in design for manufacturability and producibility
• Proficiency in systems engineering tools and hardware verification methodologies
• Knowledge of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and qualification testing

• Experience with single use munitions, attritable systems
• Knowledge of datalinks, RF communications, and network-centric operations
• Experience with digital engineering and model-based systems engineering (MBSE)
• Experience with swarm coordination, collaborative autonomy, or multi-agent systems
  
  Knowledge of modular design approaches and open systems architecture
• Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and military airworthiness certification
• Und…