Forward Deployed Engineer

Forward Deployed Engineer

Arlington, Virginia

As a Forward Deployed Engineer, you will work closely with Auterion's customers and partners to deploy and integrate our drone technology into their systems. This role focuses on the mechanical integration, design adaptation, and field deployment of UAV platforms and subsystems, while maintaining strong collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams.

You will combine hands-on mechanical engineering expertise with customer-facing project delivery, supporting clients through the full integration lifecycle—from initial system design and prototyping to testing and operational deployment. You will serve as a key technical interface between Auterion and customer engineering teams, ensuring reliable and scalable mechanical solutions that enable safe and effective drone operations.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Lead the mechanical integration of Auterion's hardware and UAV systems into customer platforms, including structural design, mounting solutions, payload integration, and environmental considerations.
• Design, develop, and iterate mechanical components and assemblies using rapid prototyping techniques (e.g., CAD, 3D printing, machining), ensuring robustness, manufacturability, and performance in real-world conditions.
• Support on-site deployments, testing, and validation of UAV systems, troubleshooting mechanical and electromechanical issues to ensure reliable operation in diverse environments.
• Act as the primary technical point of contact for customers on mechanical engineering topics, providing guidance, resolving issues, and ensuring successful system integration and adoption.
• Work closely with electrical, software, and product engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical, electronic, and control systems.
• Develop and maintain clear documentation, including integration guides, mechanical drawings, assembly instructions, and best practices for customers and internal teams.
• Support end-to-end implementation of Auterion's technology within customer applications, ensuring alignment with technical requirements and operational constraints.

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, preferably in robotics, aerospace, UAVs, or similar hardware-focused industries.
• Strong experience in mechanical design and prototyping, including CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar).
• Hands-on experience with fabrication and assembly techniques (3D printing, machining, soldering, wiring, and integration of electromechanical systems).
• Familiarity with integrating sensors, payloads, and embedded hardware into mechanical systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues in the field.
• Experience working directly with customers or cross-functional stakeholders in a technical capacity.
• Basic understanding of embedded systems, flight control hardware, or robotics platforms is a plus.
• UAV/drone piloting experience and familiarity with flight control systems (e.g., PX4) is a plus.
• Willingness to travel internationally and work in dynamic, field-based environments.
• US Citizenship required, with eligibility to obtain clearances.

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Stock Options
• Unlimited PTO
• Health Insurance (includes dental & vision)
• Medical flex spending
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Plan - 401k with company match
• Enhanced maternity & paternity leave

About Auterion

We are building the leading software platform for AI-powered autonomous systems for enterprise and government customers. Our team is supporting the most important missions and solving the most challenging problems.

At Auterion, we bring together the sharpest minds who love to solve the hardest problems. Join a vibrant team built on innovation, openness, and excellence, where you'll be empowered to develop ideas, collaborate across all levels, and make an impact that matters.