ABOUT MACH INDUSTRIES

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 120 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

THE ROLE

Mach develops and operates advanced UAS platforms across a variety of environments and mission profiles. The Autonomous Systems Engineer plays a central role in designing, building, and validating prototype systems in controlled environments. This role requires deep technical mastery of the aircraft architecture, including autonomy software, avionics, radios, and ground control systems. This engineer is the go-to authority on prototype system behavior in the lab, leading checklist development, system bring-up, and iterative testing.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and build prototype UAS platforms for early-stage development
• Perform integration of autonomy software, avionics, and communications subsystems in a laboratory setting
• Author and maintain system checklists for prototype assembly, lab testing, and validation procedures
• Develop and operate ground station tools using QGroundControl for prototype monitoring and data collection
• Conduct tuning, calibration, and validation of UAS platforms prior to field trials
• Interface directly with hardware and software teams to diagnose and resolve integration issues
• Own the execution and documentation of prototype acceptance tests and performance results
• Analyze and interpret system logs and telemetry to identify design gaps and performance trends
• Train and support other engineering team members on prototyping best practices, tools, and expected system behavior
• Support cross-functional prototype test campaigns and iterate on design feedback loops

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of experience working with autonomous systems, UAS platforms, or aerospace systems in a prototype or R&D context
• Mastery of QGroundControl and experience configuring and tuning UAS via PX4 or Ardupilot in lab environments
• Strong understanding of avionics hardware, RF systems, and networking fundamentals for system integration
• Demonstrated ability to debug complex systems in dynamic, iterative engineering environments
• Experience creating and maintaining prototype test procedures and technical documentation
• Ability to collaborate closely with cross-functional teams for iterative design reviews and rapid prototyping

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with C++ or Python in the context of autonomous systems development
• Familiarity with MAVLink, ROS2, and onboard compute platforms (NVIDIA Jetson, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation and automated test benches
• Prior experience driving prototype development cycles from concept to functional demonstration
• Holds or has held a security clearance

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!