Head of Platform Engineering

Overview

We are seeking an experienced leader to be our Head of Platform Engineering to lead the design, development, and evolution of our mission-critical platform infrastructure. This role is pivotal in ensuring secure, scalable, and resilient systems that power next-generation aerospace and defense programs. You will manage a high-performing team, drive platform strategy, and maintain hands-on technical expertise across all components.

• Lead and mentor a team of platform engineers.
• Establish performance goals, conduct reviews, and foster a culture of innovation and accountability.
• Define and execute the platform roadmap aligned with company objectives and DoD compliance requirements. Assist in scaling the Platform Department with respect to roadmap and objectives.
• Drive adoption of modern technologies and best practices for scalability, reliability, and security.
• Partner with CIO, Ground Software, Flight Software, Information Security, and IT to ensure seamless integration of platform capabilities.
• Communicate platform vision and progress to executive leadership and stakeholders.
• Maintain deep technical knowledge of platform components including:
  • Cloud and on-prem infrastructure
  • Identity and access management
  • Observability and monitoring systems
• Ensure platform capabilities are compliant with DoD cybersecurity standards (e.g., NIST 800-53, FedRAMP, CMMC)
• Oversee audits and certifications required for defense programs.

• 5-7 years in platform engineering and 3-4+ experience in leadership roles.
• Proven experience managing technical teams and delivering large-scale platforms.
• Hands-on expertise with cloud-native architecture and security frameworks.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to balance strategic vision with tactical execution.
• Familiarity with zero-trust architecture and advanced security models.

• Active DoD clearance or ability to obtain one.
• Strong knowledge of DoD compliance requirements.
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or highly regulated industries.

Head of Platform Engineering Salary: $190,000-$270,000

This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

• Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.
• Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan to help you plan for your future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth.
• Team Building
  
  Activities:
  
  Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment.

We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual.

Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Compensation Range: $190K - $270K

Head of Platform Engineering
• Irvine, CA, US