{"schemaVersion":"jobsearcher.job.v1","id":"733a2a4b3bc09b6d0ed28376","url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/733a2a4b3bc09b6d0ed28376","canonicalUrl":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/733a2a4b3bc09b6d0ed28376","title":"Project Engineer, UAS Development","description":"Who We Are\nAt Firestorm, we’re building toward a future defined by incontestable defense logistics. That means equipping warfighters with mission-critical capabilities at the point of need. Not in months, not from a depot halfway around the world, but now, in the field, on demand.\n\nWe’re a VC-backed defense technology company pioneering an expeditionary manufacturing ecosystem that produces and sustains modular, mission-adaptable unmanned systems, parts and components for repair and sustainment, and the software to transform point solutions into a network of strategic assets.\n\nWe’re building a team of engineers, operators, and problem-solvers who believe the future of deterrence cannot rely only on expensive, exquisite platforms made in centralized factories. We build and field affordable systems using distributed production capabilities at the edge. If you want to solve challenging problems that will reshape the future of defense, you’re in the right place.\n\nAbout The Role\nAt Firestorm, we are building autonomous aerial systems that operate where they are needed most, when they are needed most. Our mission requires speed, ingenuity, and a relentless commitment to engineering excellence. Firestorm is seeking a Project Engineer to drive execution and coordination across the full development lifecycle of our unmanned aerial systems. This role sits at the center of engineering, manufacturing, flight test, and program execution, ensuring designs move rapidly from concept to prototype, flight test, and production readiness.\n\nThis role blends systems engineering discipline, aerospace and mechanical fundamentals, and technical program execution to deliver safe, reliable, and rapidly iterated UAS platforms from concept through flight test and production. This role blends systems engineering discipline, hands on engineering, and agile program execution to rapidly develop, test, and mature UAS platforms from clean sheet concept to fielded capability. You will translate system goals into clear engineering plans, track deliverables and risks, coordinate cross functional technical efforts, and support hands on integration and flight activities.\n\nThe ideal candidate thrives in fast paced development environments, enjoys working closely with multidisciplinary engineers and operators, and takes pride in delivering systems that fly.\n\nWhat You’ll Do\n\nManage technical maturity of UAS systems from concept through production, ensuring alignment with program timelines, budgets, and milestone gates\n\nLead formal design and program reviews (SDR, PDR, CDR, TRR, PRR) while supporting rapid iteration and internal build fly learn cycles\n\nCoordinate across multidisciplinary engineering teams including aero performance, mechanical, electrical, autonomy, software, propulsion, manufacturing, systems integration, flight test, and payload teams\n\nTranslate mission and system specifications into derived requirements, interface definitions, and architecture documentation\n\nMaintain system architecture artifacts and interface control documentation while supporting agile development and configuration management\n\nConduct and support technical reviews for structural analyses, aerodynamic assessments, subsystem integration, avionics and electrical architecture, autonomy and controls logic, and flight test plans\n\nEnsure complete subsystem integration across flight controls, navigation, communications, propulsion, power, avionics, autonomy, and payloads\n\nDefine and map verification and validation methods and support development of test assets including HIL setups, ground rigs, instrumentation, and data pipelines\n\nIdentify and communicate technical and program risks, airworthiness considerations, and integration issues to stakeholders and leadership\n\nImprove engineering workflows including systems engineering practices, digital engineering tools, and agile execution structures\n\nDevelop and execute ground and flight test procedures, instrumentation strategies, and rapid data analysis loops\n\nSupport and participate in ground and flight test operations, including integration, troubleshooting, and post flight assessments\n\nEnsure safety, airworthiness, and compliance with FAA UAS environments including Part 107 and COA operations\n\nCoordinate with suppliers, government partners, and mission users to align development with operational needs and program objectives\n\nPrepare technical reports, milestone packages, risk briefings, and readiness summaries for leadership and defense stakeholders\n\nRequired Qualifications\n\nBachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related field\n\n5+ years of experience in an aerospace or defense engineering role supporting complex electromechanical systems, with at least 2 years as a Project Engineer.\n\nU.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance\n\nExperience with aircraft platform development, integration, or flight system maturity\n\nFamiliarity with flight controls, communications, power systems, avionics, or payload integration\n\nStrong understanding of engineering fundamentals and first principles analysis\n\nExperience with CAD and simulation tools such as SolidWorks and MATLAB or Simulink\n\nProficiency with systems engineering methodologies and technical program execution\n\nStrong communication, organizational, documentation and cross functional coordination skills\n\nAbility to operate in fast paced, iterative development environments\n\nPreferred Qualifications\n\nMasters degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related field\n\n7+ years of experience in an aerospace or defense engineering role supporting complex electromechanical systems\n\n2+ years in unmanned aerial systems or autonomous platforms\n\nHands on aircraft or robotics experience such as FPV or RC aircraft, private pilot, experimental aircraft building, or flight test support\n\nFamiliarity with autonomy, onboard compute, or AI or ML enabled edge systems\n\nAcquainted with DoD, NASA, or defense UAS programs\n\nKnowledge of FAA Part 107 and COA environments\n\nUnderstanding of UAS airworthiness and safety processes\n\nWork Environment\n\nBased at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA\n\nWe welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate\n\nWillingness to travel up to 10% domestically for testing and demonstrations\n\nAbility to work flexible hours and travel to various testing locations as needed\n\nCompensation\nUS Salary Range: $123,000 – $171,000 USD\n\nThe posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.\n\nBenefits & Perks\nOur culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:\n\nWe offer comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans\n\n401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals\n\nEquity grants for new hires\n\nUnlimited PTO\n\nExtremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.\n\nGenerous Parental Leave\n\nLifestyle Spending Account\n\nFSA\n\nDCFSA\n\nHSA\n\nHospital Indemnity insurance\n\nCritical Illness insurance\n\nAccident insurance\n\nBasic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.\n\nMental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work‑life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.\n\nExport Control Compliance\nTo conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.\n\nEqual Opportunity Statement\nFirestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.\n\n#J-18808-Ljbffr","company":"Decisive Point","rawCompany":"decisive point","city":"San Diego","state":"CA","isRemote":false,"isActive":true,"createdAt":"2026-06-20T03:18:55.598Z","occupations":[{"code":"17-2011.00","title":"Aerospace Engineers","slug":"aerospace-engineers"},{"code":"17-2199.00","title":"Engineers, All Other","slug":"engineers-all-other"},{"code":"13-1082.00","title":"Project Management Specialists","slug":"project-management-specialists"}],"industries":[{"code":"336411","title":"Aircraft Manufacturing","slug":"aircraft-manufacturing"},{"code":"336413","title":"Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing","slug":"other-aircraft-parts-and-auxiliary-equipment-manufacturing"},{"code":"336414","title":"Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing","slug":"guided-missile-and-space-vehicle-manufacturing"}],"jobPosting":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"JobPosting","title":"Project Engineer, UAS Development","description":"Who We Are\nAt Firestorm, we’re building toward a future defined by incontestable defense logistics. That means equipping warfighters with mission-critical capabilities at the point of need. Not in months, not from a depot halfway around the world, but now, in the field, on demand.\n\nWe’re a VC-backed defense technology company pioneering an expeditionary manufacturing ecosystem that produces and sustains modular, mission-adaptable unmanned systems, parts and components for repair and sustainment, and the software to transform point solutions into a network of strategic assets.\n\nWe’re building a team of engineers, operators, and problem-solvers who believe the future of deterrence cannot rely only on expensive, exquisite platforms made in centralized factories. We build and field affordable systems using distributed production capabilities at the edge. If you want to solve challenging problems that will reshape the future of defense, you’re in the right place.\n\nAbout The Role\nAt Firestorm, we are building autonomous aerial systems that operate where they are needed most, when they are needed most. Our mission requires speed, ingenuity, and a relentless commitment to engineering excellence. Firestorm is seeking a Project Engineer to drive execution and coordination across the full development lifecycle of our unmanned aerial systems. This role sits at the center of engineering, manufacturing, flight test, and program execution, ensuring designs move rapidly from concept to prototype, flight test, and production readiness.\n\nThis role blends systems engineering discipline, aerospace and mechanical fundamentals, and technical program execution to deliver safe, reliable, and rapidly iterated UAS platforms from concept through flight test and production. This role blends systems engineering discipline, hands on engineering, and agile program execution to rapidly develop, test, and mature UAS platforms from clean sheet concept to fielded capability. You will translate system goals into clear engineering plans, track deliverables and risks, coordinate cross functional technical efforts, and support hands on integration and flight activities.\n\nThe ideal candidate thrives in fast paced development environments, enjoys working closely with multidisciplinary engineers and operators, and takes pride in delivering systems that fly.\n\nWhat You’ll Do\n\nManage technical maturity of UAS systems from concept through production, ensuring alignment with program timelines, budgets, and milestone gates\n\nLead formal design and program reviews (SDR, PDR, CDR, TRR, PRR) while supporting rapid iteration and internal build fly learn cycles\n\nCoordinate across multidisciplinary engineering teams including aero performance, mechanical, electrical, autonomy, software, propulsion, manufacturing, systems integration, flight test, and payload teams\n\nTranslate mission and system specifications into derived requirements, interface definitions, and architecture documentation\n\nMaintain system architecture artifacts and interface control documentation while supporting agile development and configuration management\n\nConduct and support technical reviews for structural analyses, aerodynamic assessments, subsystem integration, avionics and electrical architecture, autonomy and controls logic, and flight test plans\n\nEnsure complete subsystem integration across flight controls, navigation, communications, propulsion, power, avionics, autonomy, and payloads\n\nDefine and map verification and validation methods and support development of test assets including HIL setups, ground rigs, instrumentation, and data pipelines\n\nIdentify and communicate technical and program risks, airworthiness considerations, and integration issues to stakeholders and leadership\n\nImprove engineering workflows including systems engineering practices, digital engineering tools, and agile execution structures\n\nDevelop and execute ground and flight test procedures, instrumentation strategies, and rapid data analysis loops\n\nSupport and participate in ground and flight test operations, including integration, troubleshooting, and post flight assessments\n\nEnsure safety, airworthiness, and compliance with FAA UAS environments including Part 107 and COA operations\n\nCoordinate with suppliers, government partners, and mission users to align development with operational needs and program objectives\n\nPrepare technical reports, milestone packages, risk briefings, and readiness summaries for leadership and defense stakeholders\n\nRequired Qualifications\n\nBachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related field\n\n5+ years of experience in an aerospace or defense engineering role supporting complex electromechanical systems, with at least 2 years as a Project Engineer.\n\nU.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance\n\nExperience with aircraft platform development, integration, or flight system maturity\n\nFamiliarity with flight controls, communications, power systems, avionics, or payload integration\n\nStrong understanding of engineering fundamentals and first principles analysis\n\nExperience with CAD and simulation tools such as SolidWorks and MATLAB or Simulink\n\nProficiency with systems engineering methodologies and technical program execution\n\nStrong communication, organizational, documentation and cross functional coordination skills\n\nAbility to operate in fast paced, iterative development environments\n\nPreferred Qualifications\n\nMasters degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related field\n\n7+ years of experience in an aerospace or defense engineering role supporting complex electromechanical systems\n\n2+ years in unmanned aerial systems or autonomous platforms\n\nHands on aircraft or robotics experience such as FPV or RC aircraft, private pilot, experimental aircraft building, or flight test support\n\nFamiliarity with autonomy, onboard compute, or AI or ML enabled edge systems\n\nAcquainted with DoD, NASA, or defense UAS programs\n\nKnowledge of FAA Part 107 and COA environments\n\nUnderstanding of UAS airworthiness and safety processes\n\nWork Environment\n\nBased at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA\n\nWe welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate\n\nWillingness to travel up to 10% domestically for testing and demonstrations\n\nAbility to work flexible hours and travel to various testing locations as needed\n\nCompensation\nUS Salary Range: $123,000 – $171,000 USD\n\nThe posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.\n\nBenefits & Perks\nOur culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:\n\nWe offer comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans\n\n401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals\n\nEquity grants for new hires\n\nUnlimited PTO\n\nExtremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.\n\nGenerous Parental Leave\n\nLifestyle Spending Account\n\nFSA\n\nDCFSA\n\nHSA\n\nHospital Indemnity insurance\n\nCritical Illness insurance\n\nAccident insurance\n\nBasic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.\n\nMental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work‑life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.\n\nExport Control Compliance\nTo conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.\n\nEqual Opportunity Statement\nFirestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.\n\n#J-18808-Ljbffr","datePosted":"2026-06-20T03:18:55.598Z","dateModified":"2026-06-20T03:18:55.598Z","hiringOrganization":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Decisive Point","sameAs":"https://jobsearcher.com"},"jobLocation":{"@type":"Place","address":{"@type":"PostalAddress","addressLocality":"San Diego","addressRegion":"CA","addressCountry":"US"}},"identifier":{"@type":"PropertyValue","name":"JobSearcher","value":"733a2a4b3bc09b6d0ed28376"},"url":"https://jobsearcher.com/jobs/733a2a4b3bc09b6d0ed28376"}}