Director of Advanced Design
The Director of Advanced Design at Anduril Industries leads the conceptual design efforts for Group 5 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and advanced missile platforms within the Air Dominance & Strike hardware engineering organization. Anduril Industries is a defense technology company committed to transforming U.S. and allied military capabilities through advanced technology, focusing on rapid development and deployment of cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking solutions.
In this role, the Director oversees the entire conceptual design process, including mission analysis, configuration trade studies, requirements development, and architecture selection for UAV and missile platforms. They serve as a technical expert during early-phase pursuits, shaping concept white papers, customer proposals, and technology roadmaps in collaboration with the chief engineering team. The Director also engages directly with customers to translate mission requirements into design concepts and ensures alignment with technical feasibility, affordability, and mission needs.
Candidates must have over 10 years of experience in conceptual or preliminary design of aerospace systems, with technical leadership roles on Group 5 UAS, similar class aircraft, or advanced missile systems. Expertise in at least one core aerospace hardware discipline—such as aerodynamics, structures, propulsion integration, or electrical systems—is required. A deep understanding of system architecture, mission requirements, and full product lifecycle development is essential, along with proven experience leading high-performance engineering teams in fast-paced, cross-functional environments.
The position offers a competitive salary range of $206,000 to $309,000 annually, with actual compensation varying based on factors like experience, education, and critical skills. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most full-time offers. Anduril provides comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost, generous PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December, paid caregiver and wellness leave, family planning and parenting support, mental health resources, professional development stipends, daily meals and provisions, commuter benefits, relocation assistance, and a 401(k) retirement savings plan.
Anduril Industries fosters a dynamic and innovative company culture, emphasizing rapid development and deployment of advanced defense technologies. Employees have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects that have a real-world impact, collaborating with a diverse team of experts dedicated to transforming military capabilities. The company supports professional growth through continuous learning opportunities and encourages employees to take initiative in shaping the future of defense technology.