Manager of Payload Systems and Integration

About Mach Industries Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. The Role Mach is seeking a Manager of Payload Systems and Integration to own and deliver payload capability across our munition platforms-from early concept through real-world deployment. This role is about owning outcomes, driving execution, and closing the gap between design and deployment. This is a hands-on, high-ownership role for someone who wants to directly shape systems that reach the field quickly. You will be responsible for ensuring payload systems are designed correctly, fully integrated into our vehicles, and proven through test and flight operations. You will work in tight coordination with our Vehicle Leads and Test & Flight Operations team to rapidly iterate and deliver mission-ready capability to the warfighter. Key Responsibilities Payload Ownership & System Integration * Own the end-to-end payload system, including warhead, fuzing, energetics, and effects * Own integration of payloads into operational platforms, ensuring performance at the full system level * Define and maintain System requirements and Interface Control Documents (ICDs) * Develop and own standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling, Integration, and Ground operations of energetic systems * Ensure payload systems are safe, repeatable, and operationally executable across engineering, test, and field environments * Work directly with Vehicle Leads to drive system architecture, constraints, and tradeoffs * Ensure payload designs are practical, manufacturable, and mission-aligned including working with internal and external supply chain and manufacturing teams Verification & Validation * Own the verification and validation strategy for payload systems * Develop test plans, evaluation methodologies, and acceptance criteria tied to system requirements and mission outcomes * Execute alongside test and flight ops teams to conduct ground testing, flight testing, and live-fire events * Rapidly iterate designs based on real-world test data * Validate handling, integration, and operational procedures through ground and flight test activities Flight & Field Execution * Serve as the payload lead during test campaigns and flight operations * Support range events, demos, and field deployments * Drive tight iteration loops between design → test → analysis → deployment Program Delivery * Own payload readiness across prototype, validation, demonstration, and fielding * Deliver systems that meet targets for performance, reliability, safety, and timeline * Translate mission needs into deployable, integrated payload capability Required Qualifications * 5-10+ years of experience in munitions, missile systems, or energetics * Proven track record owning design, integration, verification, and validation of complex hardware systems * Strong technical background in warhead / energetics design and/or weapon system integration * Experience developing requirements, Interface Control Documents (ICDs), test and validation strategies, and SOPs * Experience operating in Flight test, range, or live-fire environments * Familiarity with fuze safety and arming requirements, including experience working with DoD/Service safety boards (e.g., Fuze Safety Review Board) and relevant MIL-STD guidelines Preferred Qualifications * Experience delivering payloads on missiles, loitering munitions, or unmanned systems * Background in system-level design and trade studies * Experience in fast-paced or early-stage engineering environments Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!