Aircraft Subsystems Engineering Lead

Overview

Natilus is building the next generation of aviation through the development of blended-wing-body aircraft, delivering a step-change in overall efficiency. Our growing family of aircraft is designed to make air travel more sustainable while fundamentally improving the economics of commercial flight and the operational effectiveness of defense logistics.

By combining advanced aerodynamics with innovative design, Natilus aircraft achieve exceptional fuel efficiency, increased payload capacity, and seamless compatibility with existing airport infrastructure. With hundreds of aircraft valued in the billions of dollars already on order, we are redefining how aircraft are designed, built, and operated, representing a meaningful evolution in modern aviation.

Natilus is seeking a Aircraft Subsystems Engineering Lead to join our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will contribute and lead end-to-end systems development, including requirements definition, system architecture, and technical integration across all subsystems. This role oversees trade studies, interface control, compliance, and scheduling, while providing technical leadership and mentorship to the engineering team.

• Applies technical knowledge to the aircraft systems design from concept through first flight
• Provide technical leadership and oversight for the Kona systems design team
• Assign work, set priorities, and mentor engineers to ensure timely, high-quality execution
• Communicate and collaborate closely with the executive team including CEO and Head of Engineering
• Manage engineering deliverables, identify issues, and drive corrective actions as needed
• Lead and contribute to aircraft system design and analysis from concept through production, including propulsion, fuel, electrical, avionics, and flight controls

• Minimum of 10 years of experience as a systems engineer or in a closely related role
• Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
• Strong foundational understanding of aircraft systems
• Familiarity with FAA Part 23 and 25 requirements
• Experience with aircraft systems test planning and execution
• Experience with turboprop power plant installation design
• Familiarity with composite airframe design and integration
• Proficiency with NX, CATIA, or Solid Works
• Experience with rapid prototype aircraft programs from conceptual and preliminary design through build

• Kickoff through production program experience
• Rapid prototype program experience
• Hands-on build experience

• Build trust through ownership, transparency, and follow-through
• Communicates clearly, directly, and respectfully across teams
• Lead by example and model expected behaviors
• Ability to give and receive direct, constructive feedback
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with evolving priorities

Occasional travel and on-site work at the local hangar may be required.

• Health Care Plan (Medica, Dental, Vision)
• Retirement Plan – 401k
• Unlimited PTO
• Onsite Gym Access

Natilus Inc. hires solely based on qualifications, merit and competence. Natilus Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Natilus Inc. does not hire on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.