Principal Test & Evaluation Engineer, Mission Autonomy

As a Principal Test & Evaluation Engineer at Anduril Industries, your primary responsibilities will include leading large-scale developmental and operational tests of mission autonomy capabilities, overseeing critical test events, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to align test plans with system capabilities, manage multiple testing activities, and provide vital feedback to improve our autonomous systems.

To qualify for the Principal Test & Evaluation Engineer position at Anduril Industries, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related technical field, along with at least 8 years of experience in testing high-stakes autonomous systems. Proficiency in leading complex test events as a test director and familiarity with FAA and FCC regulations is also necessary.

Anduril Industries offers a comprehensive professional development stipend to its employees, including Principal Test & Evaluation Engineers. This initiative is designed to foster continuous learning and skills advancement, ensuring that team members stay at the forefront of technological advancements and best practices in testing and evaluation.

The Test & Evaluation team at Anduril Industries specializes in a broad spectrum of testing activities that emphasize mission autonomy systems. We utilize surrogate vehicles in a fast-paced environment, focusing on innovative approaches to ensure that our products not only meet but exceed performance and reliability standards critical to modern military operations.

As a Principal Test & Evaluation Engineer at Anduril Industries, you can expect a collaborative and fast-paced work environment where innovation thrives. You'll be part of a diverse team dedicated to transforming military technology, with ample opportunities for professional growth and a culture that values feedback and contribution from all members.

In answering this question, highlight specific test events you have led, detailing your role, the systems tested, and how you navigated challenges. Discuss your organizational skills and how you ensured compliance with regulatory standards.

Share your strategies for task prioritization, such as utilizing project management tools or frameworks. Explain how you assess urgency, importance, and stakeholder needs to allocate resources effectively.

Articulate your familiarity with FAA, FCC, or other relevant regulations. Provide examples of how you ensured compliance in prior roles and the impact it had on the testing process.

Describe specific challenges in testing scenarios, whether technical, team-related, or regulatory. Focus on your problem-solving skills and the outcomes of your actions, showcasing your adaptability.

Discuss your approach to data analysis, including tools or methodologies used. Emphasize the importance of continuous improvement and how data insights influenced design decisions in past projects.

Provide an example of a project where collaboration with software, hardware engineers, or product managers was crucial. Highlight communication strategies and how team synergy led to successful outcomes.

Share the methodologies and frameworks you utilize in your test planning, such as Agile, V-model, or others. Discuss how these methodologies enhance the testing process and ensure successful results.

Reflect on your leadership style, whether it's collaborative, directive, or coaching. Provide examples of how your style fosters a productive environment, enhances team performance, and promotes professional growth.

Convey your passion for defense technology and its impact on national security. Discuss any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue a career in this critical field.

Talk about your strategies for clear communication, which may include regular updates, reports, or presentations. Emphasize the importance of tailoring your message to the audience to ensure understanding and engagement.