Job Description

Chief Engineer

Full-Time | Onsite - Los Angeles | Aerospace, Robotics, Defense, and Research & Development Sector

PLEASE READ FULL DESCRIPTION!

About the Role

Our client, a start-up, is seeking an experienced and visionary Chief Engineer to lead and scale the technical and engineering strategy for their growing aerospace and defense research & development company. This full-time, onsite position in the Los Angeles area requires a dynamic leader with a strong engineering background and proven success driving innovation and managing cross-functional R&D and technical operations within regulated environments.

In this role, the ideal candidate will possess deep domain knowledge in robotics, unmanned systems, aerospace, and defense technologies, with a track record of building and leading high-performing technical teams, overseeing full product development lifecycles, and contributing to strategic growth initiatives, including Research & Development (R&D), Science & Technology (S&T), and manufacturing innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the project and/or product technical vision and strategy in alignment with overall business goals.
• Lead engineering teams across disciplines, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, accountability, and excellence.
• Oversee R&D, product development, and technology implementation activities, ensuring technical excellence and successful delivery.
• Collaborate closely with the Head of Operations, Legal, BD, and Program and Project Managers to ensure technical programs align with contractual and operational goals.
• Drive system architecture, technology roadmaps, and product development across core business lines.
• Represent the technical voice of the company in client engagements, including proposals, program reviews, and strategic partnerships.
• Ensure engineering processes meet or exceed industry, regulatory, and security compliance standards.
• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies to maintain a competitive edge in defense and aerospace markets.
• Support manufacturing operations with scalable and efficient production technologies and methodologies.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of industry experience with 5+ years of experience in engineering leadership roles within aerospace, defense, or adjacent industries.
• Proven success in building and scaling technical teams and programs within a startup or small business environment.
• Deep knowledge of aerospace/defense system development, industry regulations, and compliance frameworks.
• Strong track record in R&D/S&T initiatives and transitioning innovations into production-ready systems.
• Experience with SBIR/STTR or other R&D/grant programs.
• Hands-on expertise in systems engineering, mechanical/electrical engineering, embedded systems, hardware-software integration, and related technical domains.
• Demonstrated experience managing cross-functional engineering and technical programs.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience supporting business development and proposals from a technical leadership role is a plus.

• Active Security Clearance a plus but not required, must be able to obtain one.
• U.S. citizenship is required.

KEYWORDS:

robotics, unmanned systems, guidance/navigation/control, systems engineering

BENEFITS:

Medical, Vision, Dental - company pays 65%

Travel: Up to 25% (1-2 week trips)

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