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Chief Engineer, Defense

Astro Mechanica · San Francisco · On-site

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About Astro Mechanica

We're reinventing aircraft from the engine forward. Backed by Y Combinator and a16z.

About the role

Technical Leadership: Drive aircraft development across all subsystems — propulsion, aerostructures, avionics, flight controls, thermal management, and systems integration — to achieve performance, safety, and mission objectives Stakeholder Communication: Communicate clearly and proactively with internal teams and external stakeholders (customers, defense agencies, suppliers, and regulatory bodies) on technical developments, design challenges, risk mitigation, and path forward

What they're looking for

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred)
  • 10+ years of experience in aircraft design and development, with significant experience in flight vehicles
  • Prior experience supporting defense or military aerospace programs, including familiarity with defense acquisition processes
  • Demonstrated experience owning technical, schedule, and cost outcomes on a complex aerospace program
  • Deep working knowledge of aircraft systems integration (propulsion, structures, aerodynamics, avionics)
  • Strong track record of engaging with government customers, prime contractors, or defense agencies
More about this role

Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company developing a scalable technology platform to power critical infrastructure, mission operations, and the future of flight. We apply aerospace engineering and quality standards across our products, delivering high performance, reliability, and efficiency for the most demanding operating environments. Astro Mechanica is backed by leading venture and strategic investors, including Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Giant Step Capital, United Airlines Ventures, and Voyager Ventures.

We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy.

We are seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the technical development of applications of our aircraft in direct support of the military. This is a senior leadership role responsible for the integrity, performance, and successful delivery of the aircraft across all engineering disciplines. The Chief Engineer will serve as the top technical authority on this aircraft,...

Read the full posting on Astro Mechanica's site ↗

Defense Systems

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