This role pays more than
84%
of similar roles. Most pay
$193,000–$264,200
— the shaded band above.
At the midpoint, this role pays about
$295k
versus about
$229k
for comparable roles.
Based on 240 similar postings.
Employer
About Anduril Industries
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company that builds advanced hardware and software systems for national security, including autonomous drones, surveillance systems, and the Lattice AI command platform.
Anduril Industries currently has
1697 open roles
on FindRole.
Listed pay typically runs
$146,000–$194,000
across 1504 roles with salary data.
Programs Chief Engineer, Dive XL serves as the primary technical authority for an autonomous underwater system within a major US undersea defense program. This role involves leading a multi-disciplinary team of engineers to define the system architecture, roadmap, and execution strategy while ensuring performance in harsh maritime environments. The individual will manage the end-to-end development lifecycle, including requirements management, trade-off analysis, and test and evaluation strategies. Key responsibilities include resolving complex technical problems across mechanical, electrical, software, autonomy, acoustics, and materials domains. Candidates must possess expertise in hydrodynamics, power systems, underwater communications, navigation, perception, and AI/ML applications for autonomous decision-making. The role requires proficiency in systems engineering principles to deliver robust capabilities for national security while navigating the complexities of maritime technology integration and defense acquisition requirements.
Define the technical vision, architecture, and strategic roadmap for the Dive-XL autonomous underwater system.
Serve as the ultimate authority for design decisions across mechanical, electrical, software, and autonomy disciplines.
Oversee the end-to-end development lifecycle from requirements definition through integration, testing, and deployment.
Define and manage the test and evaluation strategy, including acceptance criteria and readiness reviews.
Resolve complex technical challenges as a hands-on expert for design, integration, and operational issues.
Manage technical trade-offs, including build vs. buy decisions and balancing speed against long-term sustainability.
Identify and mitigate technical risks throughout the program lifecycle while developing contingency plans.
Act as the primary technical point of contact for internal stakeholders, customers, and external partners.
What we're looking for
Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace Engineering, Robotics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
15+ years of experience in the design, development, integration, and deployment of complex autonomous systems.
5+ years of experience as a Chief Engineer, Technical Director, Lead Architect, or equivalent senior technical leadership role on a major hardware/software program.
Proficiency in systems engineering principles including requirements management, interface control, verification, and validation.
Proven ability to lead and mentor multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
Exceptional communication skills to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
Ability to obtain and maintain a US Secret Clearance.