Director of Advanced Design

The role

This role oversees the conceptual design for Group 5 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and advanced missile platforms. You will direct the end-to-end conceptual design process and serve as a technical expert for early-phase pursuits.

What you will do

• Direct the end-to-end conceptual design process for UAV and missile platforms.
• Perform mission analysis, configuration trade studies, requirements development, and architecture selection.
• Serve as a technical expert for early-phase pursuits, shaping white-papers, proposals, and roadmaps.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders on technical feasibility, affordability, and mission needs.
• Support direct interactions with customers to translate mission requirements into design concepts.
• Act as a senior technical decision-maker to ensure effective design paths.
• Partner with Chief Engineers and product teams to align execution with mission goals.
• Incorporate disruptive innovations into early-stage designs.

Required qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in conceptual or preliminary design of aerospace systems.
• Technical leadership roles on Group 5 UAS, similar class aircraft, or advanced missile systems.
• Expertise in at least one core aerospace hardware discipline: aerodynamics, structures, propulsion integration, or electrical systems.
• Deep understanding of system architecture, mission requirements, and full product lifecycle development.
• Proven experience leading high-performance engineering teams.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and technical leadership skills.

Nice to have

• Advanced degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Experience with rapid prototyping and iterative development environments.
• Hands-on experience with advanced design tools, simulation, and test equipment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive, competitive benefits package available at little to no cost to employees.

Before you apply

• By submitting your application, you consent to Anduril Industries using a third-party service provider to conduct pre-employment risk, integrity, and due diligence screening.

About the company

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. The company's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system.