IPT Lead - Payload Integration (PLD)

Description

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA or Huntsville, AL

SALARY RANGE: $150,000.00 - $200,000.00 annually

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

ABOUT EDGE

Edge is a recognized leader across uncrewed aircraft systems, power solutions, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance solutions through leading-edge technologies. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence. Our expertise in these areas allows us to deliver advanced, reliable, and effective solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients. At Edge, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and dynamic environment where creativity and technical prowess converge to solve some of the industry's most complex challenges.

SUMMARY

Edge is seeking an experienced Integrated Product Team (IPT) Lead - Payload Integration to oversee the integration of payload systems for uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). This role will be responsible for wing payloads, MOD Payload A-Kits, payload interfaces and harnesses (electrical, mechanical, and data), payload mounts, payload retraction mechanisms, and payload CONOPS and operational requirements. The IPT Lead will collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams, program management, and field operations teams to ensure seamless integration of payload systems from concept through deployment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties.

• Lead the design, integration, and testing of payload droppers, MOD Payload A-Kits, and payload deployment systems.

• Develop and oversee payload interfaces and harnesses, including electrical, mechanical, and data connections for seamless integration.

• Define and implement payload mounting solutions, ensuring reliability and compliance with UAS performance requirements.

• Oversee payload retraction mechanisms, ensuring proper deployment, retraction, and storage for operational efficiency.

• Develop Concept of Operations (CONOPS) and operational requirements for payload integration, ensuring alignment with mission objectives.

• Ensure compliance with power, weight, balance, and EMI shielding requirements when integrating payloads into UAS platforms.

• Work closely with systems engineering, electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to ensure compatibility and integration of payload systems.

• Develop and execute test plans, including lab, ground, and flight testing, to validate payload performance and reliability.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams working on payload integration.

• Interface with customers, stakeholders, and program management to ensure payload solutions meet operational and mission needs.

QUALIFICATIONS

The following are non-exhaustive qualifications for the position:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Systems, or UAS related field), or equivalent experience.
• Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline is preferred.
• Strong expertise in payload integration for UAS, aerospace, or defense platforms.
• Experience designing and integrating payload interfaces, harnesses, and mounting solutions.
• Knowledge of electrical and mechanical interfaces, including power distribution and data communication for payloads.
• Familiarity with payload deployment and retraction mechanisms, ensuring functional reliability.
• Understanding of CONOPS development and operational requirements for mission-critical payload systems.
• Proficiency in CAD and simulation tools for payload design and analysis.
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, or UAS industries, with a focus on payload integration.
• Proven experience leading cross-functional teams to execute payload system development and deployment.
• Hands-on experience in flight testing and payload validation.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to coordinate teams and resources.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities for complex payload integration challenges.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills, with experience working across multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Highly detail-oriented and organized, with a proactive approach to risk management and system optimization.
• Prior experience with UAS payload development and integration preferred.
• Experience working in DoD or defense contracting environments preferred.
• Ability to mentor and develop engineering talent within the payload integration team.
• Adaptability to work in high-pressure, mission-driven environments
• Experience working with MIL-STD, FAA, and DoD compliance standards for payload integration.
• Knowledge of ISR, EO/IR, electronic warfare (EW), and custom sensor payloads.

EDGE AUTONOMY 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

HIRING REQUIREMENTS

If an offer of employment offer is extended, applicant must have the ability to pass a background check and the ability to be insured by the Company's Auto-policy. An Offer of Employment is contingent upon the results.

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.

EDGE AUTONOMY 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. Edge Autonomy is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact [email protected]

Continued employment remains on an "At-Will" basis.