# Chief Engineer, Defense at Astro Mechanica

- Company: Astro Mechanica
- What the company does: We're reinventing aircraft from the engine forward. Backed by Y Combinator and a16z.
- Company website: https://astromecha.co/
- Type: Startups
- Level: Principal and up
- Location: San Francisco
- Work setup: On-site
- Pay: $220K to $300K base salary per year (USD)
- Posted: 2026-09-10
- Apply by: 2026-10-25
- Apply: https://jobs.ashbyhq.com/astro-mechanica/7c6ae79b-a08d-4f06-8872-6a20095d076e
- Page: https://www.1752.vc/careers/jobs/astro-mechanica-chief-engineer-defense/

## 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

Tags: Defense Systems