Drone Mission Support Specialist

Anduril Anduril · Defense · Costa Mesa, CA · Tactical Recon & Strike : Tactical Recon & Strike Engineering : TRS - Software

This role focuses on the development, testing, and operational deployment of small drones and their associated systems, particularly those powered by an AI-driven operating system. The specialist will be involved in rapid prototyping, validation of algorithms, and ensuring systems meet warfighter needs in a defense technology context.

What you'd actually do

  1. Lead technical execution from vision & initial design, through prototyping and first successful testing
  2. Develop & own surrogate aircraft with the goal of accelerating our ability to test algorithms in live flight
  3. Develop systems that support expeditionary operation, intuitive setup and use by warfighters, and modular expansion of sensors
  4. Setup trades to enable exploration of early designs while working closely with technical SMEs and Business Development teams to find the right solution for current and future gaps in capability
  5. Operate at the intersection of software, hardware, and testing helping to craft a system level architecture that supports a robust and cost effective design

Skills

Required

  • Experience with Ardupilot / PX4
  • Experience with RC systems
  • Part 107 operator
  • Willingness to travel (<30%)
  • Basic understanding of Aerodynamics, Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), Control Actuation Servos, and how those disciplines relate to overall system performance.
  • Experience with data analysis, rapid prototyping, and early-stage customer deployment
  • Hands-on build and prototyping of complex robotic systems
  • Ability to engage technically with mechanical, electrical, firmware, sensors, and robotics software leads
  • Travel on short notice to fulfill operational needs if and when those needs arise.
  • High ownership, mission-oriented mentality. Desire to see the product meet the end need of the customer.
  • A sincere commitment to a positive, inclusive, and collaborative culture
  • Desire to obtain and hold a U.S. Secret security clearance
  • Ability to travel as required for test planning and execution

Nice to have

  • Real-world operational experience with small UAS systems in a military context

What the JD emphasized

  • rapid development
  • rapid validation
  • rapid prototyping
  • rapid prototyping
  • rapid prototyping

Other signals

  • AI-powered operating system
  • cutting-edge autonomy
  • AI, computer vision
  • autonomous systems
  • testing algorithms