Autonomous Systems Engineer - Forward Deployable

Mach is a defense manufacturing company that builds munitions to help the United States win future wars. Backed by $85M in funding from top venture firms, our small lean team ideates, designs, manufactures, and sells cutting-edge weapons to the Department of Defense.

Mach develops and operates advanced UAS platforms across a variety of environments and mission profiles. The Autonomous Systems Engineer - Forward Deployed plays a central role in fielding these systems, leading technical operations and complex troubleshooting efforts in live environments. This role requires deep technical mastery of the aircraft, including autonomy software, avionics, radios, and ground control systems. This engineer is the go-to authority on system behavior in the field, leading checklist development, system bring-up, and mission execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead in-field troubleshooting of autonomy stack, avionics, and communications systems
• Serve as the primary technical authority on aircraft systems during field operations
• Author and maintain system checklists for pre-flight, inflight, and post-flight procedures
• Lead ground station operations and flight monitoring using QGroundControl
• Perform final integration, tuning, and validation of UAS platforms prior to flight
• Interface directly with engineering teams to diagnose and resolve software and hardware issues
• Own the execution and documentation of post-manufacturing flight acceptance tests
• Analyze and interpret system logs and telemetry to identify root causes and trends
• Train and support other field team members on best practices, tools, and system behavior
• Support cross-functional test campaigns and deployments both domestically and internationally

Minimum Requirements:

• 5+ years of experience working with autonomous systems, UAS platforms, or aerospace systems
• Mastery of QGroundControl and experience configuring and tuning UAS via PX4 or Ardupilot
• Strong understanding of avionics hardware, RF systems, and networking fundamentals
• Demonstrated ability to debug complex systems in dynamic, time-sensitive field environments
• Experience creating and maintaining flight procedures and technical documentation
• Ability to travel extensively for field testing and customer demonstrations

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with C++ or Python in the context of autonomous systems
• Familiarity with MAVLink, ROS2, and onboard compute platforms (NVIDIA Jetson, etc.)
• Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Prior military or government field experience
• Holds or has held a security clearance

Benefits at Mach Industries

At Mach Industries, we prioritize the well-being and growth of our team. Our comprehensive benefits package supports financial security and professional development, including:

• Competitive Compensation Package: Competitive base salary and equity grants, with salary varying based on experience, skills, and business factors.
• Healthcare & Wellness Benefits: Platinum-level medical, dental, and vision insurance at no cost to U.S. employees, with 90% coverage for dependents.
• Generous Time Off & Leave Policies: 13 holidays, a 10-day holiday shutdown in December, and competitive PTO policies.
• Company-Provided Meals: Daily catered lunches and fully stocked kitchens with snacks, drinks, and a coffee bar.
• Retirement & Financial Security: 401(k) with a 5% company match (U.S. only).
• Relocation Assistance: Support for eligible team members relocating for work.

We are committed to providing the tools and resources you need to thrive both at work and beyond.

Why Mach Industries?

Join a dynamic team solving the toughest challenges in modern warfare. As an Autonomous Systems Engineer, your work will directly shape the performance and reliability of autonomous platforms that ensure global stability. Be part of a mission-driven organization pioneering scalable, innovative defense solutions that secure the American way of life.

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.

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!