Edge Autonomy Careers

WORK LOCATION: San Luis Obispo, CA o

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is  $150,000 to $185,000 / year. 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

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Project Engineer to lead the execution of UAS (Uncrewed Aircraft Systems) projects from concept through production. This role requires a strong technical background in UAS systems, project management expertise, and the ability to coordinate multidisciplinary teams. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of overall experience, including 3+ years specifically in a Project Engineer (PE) role. This position requires someone who can take ownership of projects, align team efforts with organizational goals, and ensure successful delivery on time and within budget. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

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

• Serve as the primary technical and project lead for UAS development, managing all aspects of the project lifecycle from requirements gathering to production. 

• Develop and maintain project plans, including schedules, budgets, resource allocation, and risk assessments, to ensure project objectives are met. 

• Coordinate cross-functional teams, including systems engineering, software, electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing, to ensure seamless integration and alignment with project goals. 

• Interface with customers and stakeholders to provide updates, address technical questions, and align deliverables with expectations. 

• Conduct design and technical reviews, ensuring that engineering solutions meet performance, quality, and safety standards. 

• Drive issue resolution across disciplines, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions to address technical and project challenges. 

• Monitor and report on project progress, including schedule, budget, and technical milestones, to leadership and stakeholders. 

• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements specific to UAS development and operations. 

• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performing project environment. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education / Certification 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering) or a related field preferred 

Technical Skills: 

• Strong technical understanding of UAS architectures, subsystems, and operations, including propulsion, avionics, and communications systems. 
• Proficiency in project management tools, such as Microsoft Project, JIRA, or similar platforms. 
• Familiarity with requirements management and system integration processes, including development of Interface Control Documents (ICDs). 

Experience: 

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in engineering or project management roles, with at least 3 years as a Project Engineer. 
• Proven track record of successfully managing UAS projects or projects of similar complexity from concept through production. 
• Hands-on experience in developing and testing UAS systems, with a deep understanding of multidisciplinary coordination. 

Skills & Competencies 

• Exceptional project management skills, with the ability to develop and execute detailed project plans. 
• Strong leadership and team coordination skills, with the ability to manage cross-functional teams effectively. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of presenting technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. 
• Detail-oriented and organized, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and risk management. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Technical Skills: 

• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements for UAS, including FAA and MIL-STD guidelines. 

• Knowledge of systems engineering practices, including validation and verification processes. 

Experience 

• Experience in defense or aerospace programs, including UAS systems for military applications. 

• Previous customer-facing experience in technical discussions, requirements negotiation, or project reporting. 

Skills & Competencies 

• Experience supporting flight tests or field operations for UAS platforms. 

• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to balance technical, cost, and schedule trade-offs. 

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

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.

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 Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.