Senior Manager, Flight Operations
Anduril
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century’s most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril’s family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.
ABOUT THE TEAM
The Test Pilot team at Anduril plays a vital role in evaluating and demonstrating the capabilities of our advanced systems, specifically the YFQ-44. This team collaborates closely with the EOU (Experimental Operations Unit) to conduct operational tests, develop strategies, and ensure the successful integration of our systems into large force exercises. Join us in a dynamic and innovative environment where your contributions directly impact national security.
ABOUT THE JOB
We are seeking a Test Pilot Leader to lead our pilot team for the EOU. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring effective training for EOU operators, developing operational test plans, and collaborating on tactics and procedures for employing the YFQ-44. You will also advise leadership on program strategy and drive the successful integration of our systems into operational exercises.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
- Lead Pilot Team: Oversee the training and development of EOU operators to ensure operational readiness.
- Collaborate on Test Plans: Work with the EOU to design and implement operational test plans, experimentation, and demonstrations.
- Develop Tactics and Procedures: Collaborate with the EOU to create tactics, techniques, and procedures for effective employment of the YFQ-44.
- Advise Leadership: Develop strategies and advise Anduril and Air Force leadership on program strategy for force integration.
- Plan Integration Exercises: Lead the EOU team in planning and executing the integration of the YFQ-44 into large force exercises.
- Support Developmental Testing: Participate in the developmental test program to ensure system maturity aligns with EOU objectives and schedules.
- Chase and Support Aircraft Piloting: Pilot miscellaneous high performance aircraft in support of YFQ-44 flight operations
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven experience as a test pilot with a strong background in operational test planning and execution.
- Background in military operations or collaboration with defense organizations.
- Extensive knowledge of tactics, techniques, and procedures related to unmanned systems.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to train and develop personnel.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact effectively with stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- FAA Commercial Pilot certificate with instrument rating
- Ability to maintain an FAA Class Two medical
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Graduate of an SETP-recognized Test Pilot School long course
- Pilot experience with a jet-powered Group 5 UAS platforms is highly desirable.
- Operational flight experience and familiarity in the Nevada Test and Training Range
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Aviation, or a related field. Advanced degrees are a plus.
- FAA Airline Transport Rating pilot certificate
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
Healthcare Benefits
- US Roles: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you.
- UK & AUS Roles: We cover full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents.
- IE Roles: We offer an annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents.
Additional Benefits
- Income Protection: Anduril covers life and disability insurance for all employees.
- Generous time off: Highly competitive PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December. Caregiver & Wellness Leave is available to care for family members, bond with a new baby, or address your own medical needs.
- Family Planning & Parenting Support: Coverage for fertility treatments (e.g., IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carriers, along with resources to support you and your partner from planning to parenting.
- Mental Health Resources: Access free mental health resources 24/7, including therapy and life coaching. Additional work-life services, such as legal and financial support, are also available.
- Professional Development: Annual reimbursement for professional development
- Commuter Benefits: Company-funded commuter benefits based on your region.
- Relocation Assistance: Available depending on role eligibility.
Retirement Savings Plan
- US Roles: Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options.
- UK & IE Roles: Pension plan with employer match.
- AUS Roles: Superannuation plan.
The recruiter assigned to this role can share more information about the specific compensation and benefit details associated with this role during the hiring process.
To view Anduril's candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://anduril.com/applicant-privacy-notice/.