Principal Hypersonic Flight Test Engineer

As the Principal Hypersonic Flight Test Engineer at Anduril Industries, you will be responsible for collaborating with program management on proposals for rocket-launched systems and developing test and evaluation solutions. Leading a team, you will plan and execute comprehensive system-level testing of both hardware and software, ensuring successful integration and development cycles. Your leadership will also extend to coordinating safety procedures and engaging with civil and military certifying agencies.

Candidates interested in the Principal Hypersonic Flight Test Engineer role at Anduril Industries should have a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related technical field, along with at least 10 years of experience in managing flight testing or developmental weapon systems. Considerable expertise in flight testing processes and familiarity with military standards are essential to succeed in this position.

The Principal Hypersonic Flight Test Engineer plays a crucial role in advancing military technology at Anduril by leading the testing and evaluation of innovative systems. This role involves applying cutting-edge technology and rigorous testing protocols to ensure that flight systems are efficient, reliable, and capable of meeting the demanding standards of modern defense. By effectively managing test schedules and engaging with various stakeholders, you will help drive rapid advancements in defense capabilities.

At Anduril Industries, the Principal Hypersonic Flight Test Engineer is involved in various types of testing, including full system-level developmental testing, sub-component qualification testing, and new production acceptance testing. This position also requires performing ground and flight tests at both private and government-owned test ranges, ensuring a comprehensive approach to validating the performance and safety of rocket-launched systems.

Anduril Industries fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, providing numerous career growth opportunities for the Principal Hypersonic Flight Test Engineer. Employees can expect access to professional development stipends and mentorship programs that allow them to expand their skills and knowledge in advanced defense technologies. The dynamic nature of Anduril's projects also enables engineers to take on leadership roles and new challenges regularly.

In preparing for this question, reflect on specific projects you've been involved in, particularly focusing on your role in the design and execution of flight tests. Highlight how your decision-making and problem-solving abilities contributed to successful outcomes, as well as any unique challenges you faced.

Addressing this question, mention crucial elements such as adherence to Flight Safety Systems, range safety compliance, and thorough risk assessments. Sharing examples from your past experiences where safety protocols were critical will demonstrate your understanding of this vital aspect.

Discuss your approach to project management and scheduling, emphasizing the tools and techniques you use to balance multiple priorities. Providing examples of past experiences where you successfully managed conflicting demands will illustrate your capability.

Explain your analytical process, highlighting tools and software you prefer for analyzing test data. Include real examples of how your analysis led to actionable insights and improvements, showcasing both your technical and strategic thinking.

Prepare a narrative that details the problem, your thought process, and the eventual solution. This could involve technical challenges, communication issues, or safety concerns, illustrating your analytical abilities and leadership in problem-solving.

Outline your familiarity with specific military standards and regulations, detailing the processes you utilize to ensure compliance throughout testing phases. Sharing a specific instance where you navigated compliance challenges can bolster your case.

Discuss the importance of communication and collaboration with various teams, detailing how you have fostered a team environment in the past. Consider citing a project where teamwork significantly contributed to success.

Express your strategies for crisis management, emphasizing your calmness under pressure and systematic approach to troubleshooting. Sharing past examples where you've handled crises will enhance your credibility.

Discuss your experience with relevant software tools, highlighting which programs you've used and for what purposes. If possible, provide specific scenarios where your simulation experience influenced the test outcomes.

Illustrate your knowledge of certification standards and your experience navigating related processes. Share examples of coordinating with certifying agencies, focusing on how you ensured compliance and presented findings.