Aircraft Systems & Certification Lead

Swarm Aero is redefining air power, building the largest swarming UAV and most versatile swarming aircraft network in the world. The company is moving quickly to launch the first aircraft designed specifically for swarming as well as the Command & Control software to mobilize swarms of thousands of heterogeneous autonomous assets and empower human operators to achieve superhuman results.

The team has created and exited multiple startups, negotiated defense deals worth billions of dollars and designed and built 30 novel aircraft, with aerospace experience from Scaled Composites, SpaceX, Airbus, Archer Aviation, Blue Origin, and Boom Supersonic.

As the Founding Systems & Certification Lead at Swarm Aero, you will spearhead the creation of cutting-edge processes, modeling, analysis, and testing procedures that will revolutionize how we design and build a new class of autonomous aircraft. You'll be at the forefront of crafting our certification approach, integrating state-of-the-art manufacturing automation, and implementing Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) processes to usher in a modern, agile aircraft development methodology. We are seeking a visionary and technically adept Systems Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will bring a robust blend of technical expertise and hands-on experience, driving the design, integration, testing, and support of our intricate drone systems to new heights.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with both engineering and mission teams and customers to define project scope and requirements, progressing designs from concept to prototype and production.
• Provide technical analyses, define system functionalities, create use cases, and oversee the decomposition of requirements.
• Architect and implement a tailored and agile ARPXXX-compliant aircraft development process in conjunction with the Chief Engineer.
• Establish and utilize modeling and simulation tools to enable a digital twin-aided test and certification process.
• Develop and implement comprehensive certification strategies, plans, and schedules in coordination with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure compliance with relevant aviation standards and regulations.
• Interface with regulatory authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA) to facilitate the certification process, prepare and review documentation, and address any concerns or requirements.
• Plan, develop, and execute certification strategies for new aircraft designs, managing certification testing and validation activities, including coordination of ground and flight tests.
• Build and refine our Systems Safety Analysis process to enhance aircraft and systems designs, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• Provide engineering support for the execution of test processes, including baseline definition, test architecture design, verification, and validation.
• Review test data and designs, offering recommendations for product and process improvements, and support regression testing, technical reviews, and technical interchanges.
• Collaborate with design, engineering, and quality teams to meet certification requirements throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Stay current with advancements in drone technology, systems engineering, manufacturing automation, and industry best practices, ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory requirements and standards.
  
  

Basic Requirements

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Proven experience in leading cross-functional engineering teams through all phases of aircraft development and certification processes.
• Strong understanding of ARPXXX-compliant aircraft development procedures and agile methodologies.
• Expertise in systems and manufacturing automation, with experience establishing and using modeling and simulation tools for a digital twin-aided test and certification process.
• Demonstrated experience interfacing with regulatory authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA) and preparing certification documentation such as compliance reports, safety assessments, and test plans.
• Comprehensive knowledge of aerospace certification requirements and standards, including experience with ground and flight testing.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to provide technical guidance and reviews.
• Exceptional communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with customers, engineering teams, and regulatory bodies.
• Knowledge of the latest advancements in autonomous aircraft technology, systems engineering, and industry best practices, ensuring the adoption of cutting-edge techniques and standards.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
  
  

What We Offer

• Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth defense technology company
• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401k
• PTO and Paid Sick Time
• Monthly Wellness Stipend
• Daily catered lunch to office
• Paid Parental leave
• Flexible work arrangement - remote/hybrid with regular collaboration in Oxnard
• Direct impact opportunity - be a key leader in building a critical technology for national security
• World-class team - work alongside exceptional engineers and operators solving hard problems
  
  

Salary range: 155k-210k

Optionally: Candidates for this position must have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy work environment, Swarm Aero conducts a thorough screening of prospective employees. Candidates will be subject to a comprehensive background verification process as a prerequisite for employment.

To conform to U.S. Government controlled technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) 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 eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.