About the client:
We’re working with a rapidly scaling, well-funded aerospace startup in the San Francisco Bay Area developing next-generation aerospace technologies. With their first product approaching launch and plans to double their headcount over the next year, they’re looking for an experienced Director of Engineering to lead their engineering function and help scale their technology from initial deployment through to production.
This is a unique opportunity to join at a pivotal stage of growth, taking ownership of mission-critical engineering programmes, shaping the technical roadmap and building out a high-performing team as the company enters its next phase of commercialization.
The Role
You’ll be responsible for leading and scaling the engineering function as the company transitions from its first product launch towards larger-scale deployment. From defining technical strategy and overseeing complex engineering programmes to building and developing teams, you’ll have significant ownership over the company's engineering direction and future growth.
Responsibilities
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Lead, build and scale multidisciplinary engineering teams as the company enters its next phase of growth
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Define and execute engineering strategy, technical architecture and development roadmaps
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Drive the development of advanced aerospace systems from initial product launch through to scalable deployment
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Oversee the full engineering lifecycle, including design, development, integration, testing and validation
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Work cross-functionally with software, avionics, mechanical, electrical and systems engineering teams to deliver integrated technologies
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Establish engineering standards, improve development processes and mentor senior technical talent
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Take ownership of mission-critical engineering programmes, ensuring reliability, performance and successful delivery
Requirements
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BS/MS in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science or a related technical field
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10+ years of engineering experience, including significant technical leadership or engineering management responsibilities
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Proven experience leading, building and scaling high-performing engineering teams
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Strong technical expertise in at least one of the following areas:
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Software Engineering (flight software, embedded systems, autonomous systems)
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Electrical & Avionics Engineering (electronics, communications, power systems)
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Mechanical Engineering (aerospace structures, mechanisms, hardware development)
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Systems Engineering (system architecture, integration, verification and validation)
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Experience taking complex engineering programmes from concept through development and deployment
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Strong technical judgement, problem-solving ability and cross-functional leadership skills
Nice to Have
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Experience in aerospace, space technology, defense or autonomous systems
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Background in spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles or other complex aerospace platforms
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Experience delivering mission-critical or safety-critical engineering systems
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Previous experience scaling engineering teams within a high-growth startup
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Experience taking new technologies from initial product launch through to commercial-scale deployment
With their first product nearing launch and ambitious plans to double the team, this is a rare chance to join at a defining moment, shape the company's engineering strategy and play a major role in scaling its technology.
Interested? Apply with your CV or drop me a message to find out more.
