Director of Engineering

Job Description

The company is a fast-moving aerospace startup launched in 2019, focused on building cutting-edge unmanned aerial platforms and miniaturized sensor technologies for defense and commercial use. Currently seeking a Director of Engineering who will ensure engineering execution aligns with strategic priorities, contract requirements, and product timelines. This role sits at the intersection of engineering, sales, and executive leadership.

The Company

Founded by individuals with deep operational field experience, this agile engineering organization designs and builds advanced unmanned systems and next-gen sensor platforms for mission-critical applications.

The team combines technical depth with a strong sense of mission, delivering practical solutions for users working in complex, real-world environments.

Seeking a highly disciplined, assertive, and strategically-minded Director of Engineering to lead, coordinate, and unify the company's engineering operations.

The Compensation

$185K - $215K Competitive Annual Base Salary Plus Stock Option Package and Bonus Plan Commensurate with Experience

The Location

Fully onsite role based in the Phoenix, AZ area

The Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Coverage (2 PPO & 1 PPO/Health Savings Account Options)

Preventative Care Services Covered at No Cost

Dental PPO Plan Options

Vision Plan Options

Voluntary Life & AD&D Insurance

Short & Long-Term Disability Plans

Exclusive Employee Discount Programthrough BenefitHub

Clever Rx PrescriptionDiscount Program

The Role

Lead and manage the engineering organization across multiple teams and disciplines, including hardware, software, and systems engineering.

Serve as the bridge between the engineering team and upper management, ensuring alignment with business goals and program timelines.

Translate commercial, government, and internal product requirements into actionable engineering roadmaps.

Provide structure, clarity, and accountability across all engineering projects and priorities.

Act as a stabilizing influence within the technical team, fostering collaboration and ensuring focus, even when managing high-intensity contributors.

Identify resourcing needs, streamline processes, and manage team growth in a fast-paced startup environment.

Own reporting of engineering status, risks, and deliverables to executives and stakeholders.

Drive a culture of ownership, urgency, and excellence.

Work closely with the CEO to foster company culture and direction across the enterprise.

The Background Profile

U.S. Citizenship required

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or relevant field; Master's Degree a plus

8+ years of engineering leadership experience, preferably in aerospace, robotics, defense, or high-tech product companies

Experience in DoD contracting, UAV systems, or dual-use tech is highly valued

Prior experience working with (or managing around) challenging senior technical talent

Experience aligning technical teams with government contract requirements, especially in dual-use technology environments

Comfortable navigating ambiguity and making decisive calls in rapidly changing environments

Ability to be based or willing to relocate to Phoenix, AZ

The Ideal Background

Proven track record of managing multidisciplinary engineering teams and complex personalities under pressure

Strong organizational, planning, and execution skills with attention to detail and deadlines

Exceptional interpersonal communication and conflict management abilities

Distinctive candidates whose background and perspective complement and strengthen the current leadership team are preferred; women in technology and veterans are encouraged to apply

Full-time