---
title: 'Chief Engineer at Zone 5 Technologies'
canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/chief-engineer-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-pcq4b69mba31'
type: 'job'
last_seen: '2026-09-08'
---

# Chief Engineer at Zone 5 Technologies

- **Company:** Zone 5 Technologies
- **Location:** San Luis Obispo, CA
- **Compensation:** $180k–$230k
- **Posted:** 2026-03-27
- **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-08
- **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies/jobs/5168323008

## Job description

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

Zone 5 is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the development and integration of next-generation unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This role demands deep expertise in unmanned multi-rotor systems with either advanced software or hardware engineering capabilities. The Chief Engineer leads technical strategy, and execution for UAS platforms, overseeing software, hardware, and architecture efforts.

## Key Responsibilities

- Lead end-to-end technical development of UAS from concept through production
- Define system architecture and technical requirements for next-generation platforms including aerodynamic design, propulsion, guidance, and payload integration
- Oversee integration with aircraft systems including mechanical interfaces, communication links, and launch enclosures
- Drive technical decision-making across multidisciplinary teams including aerodynamics, flight controls, autonomy, sensors, and communications
- Establish and maintain technical standards, design processes, and verification methodologies
- Lead technical risk management and trade studies for performance, cost, and schedule optimization
- Interface with customers, stakeholders, and program leadership on technical matters
- Mentor and develop engineering talent across the organization
- Guide certification and qualification activities for airworthiness and operational readiness

Required Qualifications

- 12+ years of experience in unmanned aircraft systems development
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (Master's or PhD preferred)
- 5+ years in technical leadership roles with direct responsibility for system-level design
- Proven track record of delivering unmanned aircraft programs from concept to production
- Deep understanding of aircraft flight dynamics, guidance, navigation, and control systems
- Active or ability to obtain security clearance
- Strong communication skills with ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
- Proven ability to work with cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with systems thinking mindset

Technical Background (Software) - *REQUIRED*

- Expert-level proficiency in flight control software architecture and real-time embedded systems
- Expert-level proficiency with on board Avionics, Navigation, Communications
- Experience with path planning algorithms, and mission management software
- Strong background in software-hardware integration for avionics and flight systems
- Proficiency in model-based design, simulation, and software verification/validation
- Knowledge of DO-178C or equivalent safety-critical software standards

Technical Background (Hardware) - Preferred

- Experience with mechanical/electrical systems integration including actuators, power systems, and thermal management
- Strong background in design for manufacturability and producibility
- Proficiency in systems engineering tools and hardware verification methodologies
- Knowledge of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and qualification testing

## Qualifications

- Experience with single use munitions, attritable systems
- Knowledge of datalinks, RF communications, and network-centric operations
- Experience with digital engineering and model-based systems engineering (MBSE)
- Experience with swarm coordination, collaborative autonomy, or multi-agent systems
- Knowledge of modular design approaches and open systems architecture
- Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes and military airworthiness certification

Understanding of counter-UAS systems and electronic warfare Pay range for this role $180,000—$230,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits:

- Competitive total compensation package
- Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
- 401k with company-match
- 3 weeks of paid time off each year
- 40 hours of sick time
- 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

- Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
- Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
- Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

## About Zone 5 Technologies

## Company Overview
- **One-liner**: Zone 5 Technologies develops advanced unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and next-generation munitions for U.S. Department of Defense customers, with a focus on modular, open-architecture designs and rapid prototyping.
- **Entity Type**: Private (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace; prior to acquisition was privately held)
- **Headquarters**: San Luis Obispo, California, United States
- **Founded**: 2011
- **Founders**: Not publicly available

## Core Business
- **Primary Industry**: Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing; Defense Technology
- **Target Customers**: U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), and allied military forces (B2G)
- **Mission Statement**: "Create the future" – focused on enabling modularity, collaboration, and rapid deployment of unmanned systems and munitions.

## Products & Services
- **Paladin UAS**: A multi-mission, TAK-integrated unmanned aircraft system that serves as an autonomous wingman. Capabilities include counter-UAS interception, precision munitions drop, and rifle takedowns. Listed on the DIU Blue UAS Refresh list, ensuring NDAA compliance and cybersecurity. (Hardware + Software)
- **White Spike Interceptor**: A modular, open-C2 missile and launcher system available in surface‑ and air‑launched configurations. Designed for counter-UAS and precision strike missions. (Hardware + Software)
- **Air Launched Effects (ALE)**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered effects for affordable mass and precision strike from mobility, bomber, and tactical aircraft. (Hardware + Software)
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Low‑cost containerized missile systems, including the Extended Range Attack Munition. (Hardware)
- **Engineering Services / R&D**: End‑to‑end system development including CONOPS, vehicle design, avionics, embedded hardware/software, ground control stations, and mission planning software.

## Market Standing
- **Valuation/Market Cap**: Not publicly disclosed (acquired by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace)
- **Key Metric**: Total headcount of 183 (LinkedIn, 2026‑07), representing +241.1% year‑over‑year growth
- **Notable Investors/Partners**: Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (acquirer); DIU (multiple contract awards); U.S. Air Force
- **Growth Signals**:
  - 241% headcount growth in the last year
  - Selected for multiple DoD/DIU programs: Blue UAS Refresh, Low‑Cost Containerized Missiles, Counter UAS Next, Extended Range Attack Munition, Enterprise Test Vehicle
  - 108 active job postings (260% year‑over‑year increase)
  - 13,284 LinkedIn followers (+62% yearly)

## Competitive Advantages
- **Vertical Integration**: Concept‑to‑production capability – design, manufacturing, testing, and sustainment in‑house.
- **Open Systems / Modularity**: MOSA/WOSA architectures enable rapid adaptation of vehicles, sensors, and weapons.
- **Blue UAS Listing**: Provides an Authority to Operate (ATO) for all DoD operators, a key differentiator for government contracts.
- **Flight‑Proven Hardware**: Paladin and White Spike have undergone extensive flight testing (SIL, HIL, flight tests).
- **Agile Prototyping**: Low‑cost, digitally engineered designs allow for fast iteration and unit‑cost discipline.

## Strategic Focus
- **Expanding DoD & Allied Contracts**: Leveraging recent DIU and Air Force wins to secure production orders for Paladin, White Spike, and missile systems.
- **Scaling Workforce & Capabilities**: Rapid hiring across engineering (GNC, embedded, avionics, flight test) to support increasing program loads.
- **International Expansion**: Acquisition by Kongsberg may open access to NATO and allied markets.
- **Next‑Gen Munitions**: Emphasis on affordable mass – developing low‑cost missiles for high‑volume procurement.

## Why Work Here
- **Culture & Ratings**: Employer rating 4.2/5 on LinkedIn (based on 8 reviews); Work‑Life 4.0, Compensation 3.6, Culture 3.4, Career 3.8.
- **Growth Opportunity**: 108 open positions across software, hardware, flight test, and manufacturing – strong upward mobility in a rapidly expanding company.
- **Technical Environment**: Tech stack includes Python, MATLAB, C++, CUDA, PyTorch, Docker, Kubernetes, PostgreSQL, React, GitLab, Jenkins, and more – modern engineering tools.
- **Mission‑Driven Work**: Directly contribute to defense technology that is fielded today (Blue UAS, interceptor programs).
- **Location**: San Luis Obispo, CA – a vibrant college town near the Central Coast with outdoor lifestyle.
- **Hybrid/Remote**: Not specifically stated; most roles appear on‑site at one of three U.S. offices (San Luis Obispo, Fort Walton Beach FL, Fort Worth TX).

## Sources
1. [LinkedIn – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.linkedin.com/company/zone-5-technologies)
2. [Company Website – zone5tech.com](https://www.zone5tech.com/)
3. [Greenhouse Careers Page](http://job-boards.greenhouse.io/zone5technologies)
4. [robotics.press – Company Profile](https://robotics.press/news/zone-5-technologies-company-profile/)
5. [YouTube – Zone 5 Technologies](https://www.youtube.com/@Zone5Technologies)

## Other roles at Zone 5 Technologies

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- [Linux Systems Administrator III](https://feeny.ai/job/linux-systems-administrator-iii-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-california-2s6wp5ff9wy0) — San Luis Obispo California, United States
- [Shipping & Receiving Supervisor](https://feeny.ai/job/shipping-receiving-supervisor-zone-5-technologies-fort-worth-vp9r6bh7nv27) — Fort Worth, TX
- [Vice President of Quality](https://feeny.ai/job/vice-president-of-quality-zone-5-technologies-fort-worth-cp3xjgxhnamk) — Fort Worth, TX / San Luis Obispo California, United States
- [Recruiter - Production & Manufacturing](https://feeny.ai/job/recruiter-production-manufacturing-zone-5-technologies-fort-worth-vrq54dswf7fg) — Fort Worth, TX
- [Development Manufacturing Manager I/II](https://feeny.ai/job/development-manufacturing-manager-i-ii-zone-5-technologies-san-luis-obispo-0cwpd0k8jzfy) — San Luis Obispo, CA
- [Office Coordinator](https://feeny.ai/job/office-coordinator-zone-5-technologies-paso-robles-california-t9d8dv1qtwyx) — Paso Robles California, United States
- [Software Integration Lead](https://feeny.ai/job/software-integration-lead-zone-5-technologies-united-states-4ca2j2kj4f9b) — United States
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- [UAV Aircraft Assembler II](https://feeny.ai/job/uav-aircraft-assembler-ii-zone-5-technologies-paso-robles-california-3bpgjeat22qv) — Paso Robles California, United States