Regulatory Management Engineer

WindBorne Systems is supercharging weather forecasts with a unique proprietary data source: a global constellation of next-generation smart weather balloons targeting the most critical atmospheric data. We design, manufacture, and operate our own balloons, using the data they collect to generate otherwise unattainable weather intelligence.

Our mission is to eliminate weather uncertainty, and in the process help humanity adapt to climate change, be that predicting hurricanes or speeding the adoption of renewables. We are building a future in which the planet is instrumented by thousands of our microballoons, eliminating gaps in our understanding of the planet and giving people and businesses the information they need to make critical decisions. The founding team of Stanford engineers was named Forbes 2019 30 under 30 and is backed by top-tier investors, including Khosla Ventures and Footwork VC.

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The Regulatory Management Engineer will take ownership of securing and maintaining regulatory approvals for our expanding network of weather balloon launch sites worldwide. This is a critical role that ensures the smooth operation of our global operations while fostering strong relationships with regulatory authorities. In this role, you’ll combine your technical expertise with strategic thinking to secure and maintain regulatory approvals for our global network of launch sites. This position is perfect for a technically savvy professional—such as an engineer looking to expand into operational and regulatory leadership—who thrives on solving complex, interdisciplinary problems. You will be the bridge between WindBorne’s innovative technology and the regulatory frameworks that govern its deployment worldwide.

Responsibilities

• Regulatory Approvals: Collaborate with national and international authorities to secure launch site permits, airspace usage approvals, and environmental clearances. 

• Technical Advocacy: Effectively communicate the technical nuances of our weather balloon systems to regulators, demonstrating safety, reliability, and compliance.

• Problem-Solving: Address technical challenges or concerns raised by regulators, leveraging your background in engineering to provide solutions or clarifications.

• Documentation & Compliance: Prepare technical documents, regulatory filings, and compliance reports to ensure all global operations meet local and international standards.

• Internal Collaboration: Work with engineering and operations teams to align product design and balloon operations with regulatory requirements.

• Process Development: Design and implement strategies for obtaining and maintaining regulatory approvals for our launch sites globally. Establish scalable processes to manage regulatory compliance as our operations expand.

• Training & Support: Educate internal teams on the regulatory implications of our technology and act as a resource for compliance-related technical questions.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain relationships with international and national aviation authorities, environmental agencies, and other regulatory bodies.

Regulatory Risk Mitigation: Identify and address potential compliance risks proactively.

Skills and Qualifications

• Technical Expertise: A proven track record of gaining a deep understanding of technically complex systems.

• Regulatory Aptitude: Experience with regulatory frameworks in aviation, aerospace, telecommunications, or environmental science is highly valued.

• Communication Skills: Ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, compelling narratives for both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including regulatory authorities.

• Problem-Solver: A proactive mindset with the ability to tackle ambiguous, multi-disciplinary challenges.

• Organized Leader: Exceptional project management skills, with an ability to juggle multiple priorities across global regions.

• Collaborator: Comfortable working at the intersection of engineering, operations, and regulatory compliance.

• Boots on the Ground: Willingness to travel as needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in aviation or aerospace, especially in roles interfacing with regulatory bodies.

• Familiarity with ICAO, FAA, or similar regulatory standards.

• Hands-on experience with hardware systems is a plus.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering or a related field.

Why This Role is Unique:
This position offers an exciting opportunity to blend technical and non-technical skills into a high-impact operational and strategic role. You’ll stay closely connected to the technical aspects of cutting-edge aerospace and atmospheric science while leading the charge to bring this transformative technology to the world.

Benefits

• 401(k)

• Dental insurance

• Health insurance

• Vision insurance

• Unlimited PTO

• Stock Option Plan

• Office food and beverages

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Salary

• $70,000- $130,000** We are considering a range of backgrounds and experience levels for this position and adjust our offers accordingly to be competitive with market rates.

Location

858 San Antonio Rd, Palo Alto, CA. In person required with international travel.