Senior Systems Engineer, UAV Open Architecture

Senior Systems Engineer, UAV Open ArchitectureSalary: $140,000 - $200,000 a yearLocation: Irvine, CAOndas Sentinel, an Ondas company, delivers multi-domain intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) solutions across air, land, sea, space, and the stratosphere. Built on a combined legacy of pioneering stratospheric platforms and proven unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), we provide mission-tailored capabilities that help customers collect, connect, and act on critical information. By integrating autonomous aircraft, high-altitude platforms, satellites, terrestrial sensors, and AI-powered analytics, Ondas Sentinel transforms data from multiple sources into a unified operating picture. The result is actionable intelligence that enables defense, government, and commercial customers to make faster, more informed decisions in dynamic and contested environments.Role OverviewAs a Senior Systems Engineer, UAV Open Architecture, you will lead the systems engineering activities for Long Endurance ISR UAS Platform(s). This role will interface closely with mechanical, electrical, software, and test teams to ensure timely and effective delivery of mission-critical capabilities.Key ResponsibilitiesParticipate in the development of requirements and systems architecture that adhere to applicable government open and common architecture standardsTranslate mission needs and technical objectives into clear, actionable system requirementsDefine and manage system requirements and interfaces from early concept through integration and flight testLead the planning and coordination of system validation activities, ensuring alignment with design and operational goalsExecute system-level validation, including environmental testing, to ensure real-world readinessPartner with multidisciplinary teams across engineering, integration, and test functions to ensure seamless system developmentLead failure modes, reliability analysis, and risk management efforts across the development lifecycleContribute to system reviews and documentation to support safety, performance, and reliabilityQualificationsBachelors of Engineering in Mechanical, Electrical or Aerospace degree preferred10+ years relevant experience in aerospace, defense or government contracting environmentsBasic understanding of modular open systems approaches (MOSA) in defense systemsExperience in Aircraft / UAV development programs as Systems EngineerFamiliarity with one or more Government Reference Architectures (GRAs) such as AMS GRA, A-GRA, or OMS/UCIA strong foundation in Systems Engineering principles, especially as applied to complex, multidisciplinary systemsExperience in creating and validating environmental requirements (e.g., temperature, vibration, altitude)Familiarity with the full system development lifecycle, from concept and design through test and deliveryExcellent communication and documentation skills, especially in collaborative, cross-functional environmentsPreferred Masters degree in engineering discipline + 5 years experience preferredUnderstanding of cybersecurity principles and their application in GRAsKnowledge of FACE (Future Airborne Capability Environment) Technical StandardUnderstanding of SOSA (Sensor Open Systems Architecture) systemsExperience in aerospace, defense, robotics, or autonomous systemsKnowledge of systems engineering tools and standards (e.g., DOORS, SysML, MBSE approaches)Knowledge of military standards for environmental testing (MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, etc.)Background working on rapid development programs or prototyping effortsWorking ConditionsThe diversity of work conditions may range from an environment where there is little or no physical discomfort, such as general office environment or warehouse, to field testing environments.Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Ability to work in a standard office environment, using computer and other office equipment. Capability to travel to field sites, including manufacturing facilities, test sites, or operational environments. Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. occasionally for handling technical equipment or documentation.Work Authorization RequirementCandidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for current or future employment visa sponsorship.BenefitsOndas Sentinel offers a comprehensive healthcare benefits package. Base dental, vision, life, accident, disability, and other core benefits are fully covered by Ondas Sentinel. Ondas Sentinel provides paid time off and paid holidays. Additionally, Ondas Sentinel offers a 401 (k) plan with an employer match and immediate vesting.Ondas Sentinel Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, Ondas Sentinel Technologies complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which our company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.