Chief Technology Officer

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)Location: Full-time On-Site (CA)Type: Full-Time | Founding Team OpportunityFloat is an early-stage aerospace company developing advanced airship systems for large-scale cargo applications. We are focused on solving hard aerospace problems and translating ambitious concepts into real, tested hardware. Our team is small, execution-driven, and building a new airship platform from first principles.The RoleAs Chief Technology Officer, you will own Float’s technical vision and execution end-to-end. You will be responsible for defining system architecture, setting engineering priorities, and leading the development of Float’s airship platform from early concepts through prototyping, testing, and production-intent designs.This is a hands-on leadership role for a deeply technical builder. You will work directly with early hardware, guide critical design tradeoffs, and build a high-caliber engineering team capable of executing in a complex, safety-critical aerospace environment.ResponsibilitiesOwn and define the overall technical architecture of Float’s airship platformLead the design, prototyping, and validation of flight-critical systemsDrive system-level trade studies across structures, propulsion, energy, controls, and manufacturingEnsure designs balance performance, safety, manufacturability, and scalabilityGuide early prototype development, testing, and iteration with hands-on technical involvementBuild, mentor, and lead a world-class engineering teamEstablish engineering standards, documentation, and review processes appropriate for an early-stage aerospace programCollaborate closely with company leadership on technical roadmap and execution strategyInterface selectively with partners, vendors, and regulatory stakeholders as needed(Note: External-facing responsibilities are focused on technical credibility and execution, not sales or marketing.)QualificationsMS or PHD in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering.Deep experience in aerospace, systems engineering, or complex hardware platformsProven track record taking hardware systems from concept through prototype and testStrong system-level thinking and engineering judgment across multiple disciplinesExperience leading and scaling small, high-ownership engineering teamsComfortable operating in ambiguity and making decisions with incomplete dataBias toward execution, validation, and building real hardwareNice to HaveExperience with experimental, unconventional, or large-scale aerospace platformsBackground in energy, propulsion, avionics, or safety-critical systemsFamiliarity with manufacturing-scale hardware developmentExposure to certification-aware or regulated design environmentsPrior experience at an aerospace startup, skunkworks program, or founding teamWhy Join UsThis is a rare opportunity to shape the core engineering DNA of a company redefining how cargo moves across the planet. You’ll take on meaningful responsibility early, build groundbreaking vehicles, and grow alongside a world-class team pioneering the future of sustainable air mobility.