Principal Forward Deployable Autonomous Systems Engineer

About the company

Mach provides a full-stack autonomy platform that enables off-road equipment OEMs to deploy driverless, AI-powered machinery across agriculture, defense, landcare and other rugged industries.

About this role

ABOUT MACH INDUSTRIES Founded in 2023, 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 350 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 The Principal Forward Deployable Autonomous Systems Engineer (FDASE) is the senior technical individual contributor responsible for developing, executing, and continuously improving the operational employment of Mach’s autonomous systems. The role bridges engineering development and real-world operations, transforming engineering capability into operational capability through hands-on system integration, mission planning, technical execution, and operational analysis. The Principal FDASE leads complex field activities, solves multidisciplinary technical challenges, and ensures lessons learned during testing and customer operations are rapidly incorporated into future product development. Unlike a traditional UAS operator or field service engineer, the Principal FDASE is expected to improve how Mach develops, deploys, and employs autonomous systems. Success is measured by the maturity, reliability, and repeatability of the organization’s operational engineering capability, as well as the technical credibility established with customers and government partners. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Lead technical execution of developmental testing, customer demonstrations, operational evaluations, and deployed missions - Ensure that systems, personnel, support equipment, and operational plans are prepared to safely accomplish mission objectives. This includes balancing engineering requirements with field realities while maintaining disciplined execution under compressed timelines - Develop executable mission concepts that integrate engineering objectives with operational constraints, customer requirements, logistics, and safety considerations - Own integration of autonomy software, communications, payloads, sensors, ground systems, and operational workflows necessary to conduct missions safely and efficiently - Serve as the technical integrator responsible for ensuring individual subsystems operate as a cohesive operational capability - Resolve multidisciplinary technical issues encountered during testing and deployment - Apply sound engineering judgment to rapidly diagnose and resolve problems spanning hardware, software, networking, autonomy, instrumentation, and mission systems - Represent Mach during customer demonstrations, operational evaluations, military exercises, and deployed operations, serving as a technical ambassador for the organization, building customer confidence through disciplined execution, technical competence, and transparent communication REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS - Engineering degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related discipline. - Significant experience developing, integrating, testing, or operating autonomous systems. - Experience leading complex technical efforts through direct execution rather than organizational management. - Strong understanding of autonomous aircraft, embedded systems, networking, mission software, and system integration. - Experience planning and executing developmental testing, operational demonstrations, or deployed engineering activities. - Experience coordinating with customers, government stakeholders, or operational users. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience working with range organizations, operational safety processes, or mission approvals is highly desirable. - Experience with PX4, ArduPilot, or comparable autonomous flight architectures. - Familiarity with Linux, embedded computing, telemetry analysis, communications systems, and mission planning tools. - Ability to diagnose complex multidisciplinary technical issues under operational timelines. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills. - Ability and willingness to support frequent domestic and international travel. 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. Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. 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