Air Vehicle IPT Lead - UAS Systems & Flight Integration

Description WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA FLSA STATUS: Exempt SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $175,000 to $250,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment. Summary Redwire Defense Tech (formerly Edge Autonomy) is seeking an experienced Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead – Air Vehicle tooversee the development, integration, and delivery of our uncrewedaircraftsystems (UAS).This role willbe responsible forthe execution of projects from the Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test (SEIT) teamthroughcompletion. This role requires deep technical knowledge and leadership in key air vehicle domains, including airframe, propulsion, electrical systems, avionics hardware, payload integration,aircraftsystem hardware configuration, weight and balance, andaircraftperformance. The IPT Lead will oversee cross-functional teams, ensuring that all air vehicle subsystems are integrated and delivered efficiently while meetingproduct and projectrequirements. Responsibilities The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties. Take ownership of air vehicle projects handed off from the SEIT team and drive them through development, integration, and completion. Lead cross-functional teams to execute work across airframe, propulsion, electrical systems, avionics hardware, payload integration, weight and balance, andaircraftperformance. Ensure system integration for hardware mounts, fuel cell mounts, battery mounts, and payload bay interface control documents (ICDs). Work withProduct/Technology directors andProject Engineers to develop and manage project plans, schedules, resource allocations, and risk assessments to ensure on-time and on-budget execution. Interface with systems engineers, program managers, manufacturing teams, and test engineers to align deliverables with technical and operational goals. Conduct design reviews, technical evaluations, and integration planning to ensure seamless coordination across teams. Ensure compliance with performance, reliability, and safety standards throughout the air vehicle development lifecycle. Provide technical leadership to resolve design, integration, and manufacturing challenges. Support flight testing and validation efforts, working closely with test engineers to assess system performance. Required Qualifications The following are non-exhaustive qualifications for the position: Bachelor’s degreein Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering,Mechanical Engineeringora relatedtechnical field or equivalent experience. Strong technical background in air vehicle systems, including airframe, propulsion, avionics hardware, and electrical systems. Experience withaircraftweight and balance assessments,aircraftperformance optimization, and system hardware configuration. Knowledge of mounting solutions for hardware, including hard mounts, fuel cell mounts, and battery mounts. Proficiencyin engineering tools for CAD, analysis, and system modeling. Familiarity with payload integration and interface control documents (ICDs). 10+ years of experience in aerospace, defense or UAS industries, with a focus on air vehicle systems. Proventrack recordof leading cross-functional teamsto delivercomplex air vehicle projects. Prior experience managing air vehicle development from concept through testing and deployment. Strong leadership and decision-making abilities, with experience managing teams in a fast-paced environment. Excellent project management skills, including scheduling, risk mitigation, and resource planning. Effective communication and collaboration skills, with experience working across engineering, program management, and test teams. Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges across air vehicle subsystems. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degreein Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field is preferred. Prior experience working on UAS air vehicle design and integration. Experience supporting flighttestand validation activities. Ability to mentor and develop junior engineers within the team. Adaptability to work in dynamic, high-priority environments with shifting technical challenges Experience with composite airframe structures and advanced propulsion systems. Knowledge ofaircraftsystem integration and testing for UAS or military platforms. Redwire Defense Tech Benefits Matching 401(k) Paid PTO Paid holidays Medical, vision, and dental insurance Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability HSA and FSA Options Critical Care Plan Accident Care Plan Clearance Requirements This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR. Work Environment And Physical Requirements The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed. REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunityand reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis. #J-18808-Ljbffr