Senior Project Engineer - Join a High-Growth Defense Manufacturing Startup Scaling Next-Generation Composite Production!

Hawthorne, CA | On-site

Opportunity Summary

We are seeking a Senior Project Engineer to lead complex, cross-functional engineering initiatives at a rapidly scaling defense technology startup based in Hawthorne, California. This is a high-impact, on-site role at a pilot manufacturing facility where advanced composite production is being redefined for mission-critical defense applications. This position is ideal for a technically grounded project leader who thrives in fast-paced R&D environments. You will drive large engineering programs from early concept through production, align multidisciplinary teams, manage external vendors, and ensure projects stay on schedule, within scope, and within budget. If you are motivated by meaningful work that strengthens national security while helping reshore advanced U.S. manufacturing, this is an opportunity to take ownership and make a measurable impact.

About Us

We are a venture-backed defense manufacturing startup developing a breakthrough production method for fiber-reinforced polymer composites. Our proprietary process enables complex parts to be manufactured with significantly improved strength and quality at dramatically accelerated production speeds compared to traditional methods. With active Department of Defense programs and partnerships across the defense industrial base, we are focused on scaling advanced manufacturing capabilities for some of the most urgent mission needs in the United States.

Job Duties

• Lead large, technically complex R&D programs spanning product design, stress analysis, tooling, materials, and manufacturing engineering
• Build and maintain detailed project roadmaps including milestones, task dependencies, risk registers, and communication plans
• Coordinate timelines across multiple engineering teams to ensure alignment and execution consistency
• Identify bottlenecks, anticipate technical and operational risks, and proactively implement mitigation strategies
• Manage third-party vendors and external partners to support project deliverables
• Develop and track project budgets, balancing personnel, equipment, and facility resources
• Utilize project management tools such as Excel, Smartsheet, MS Project, Asana, or similar platforms to monitor progress and performance
• Serve as the connective link between technical teams and execution leadership, ensuring clarity across stakeholders
• Step into technical problem-solving when necessary to support engineering progress
• Drive programs from early research phases through proof of concept and into production readiness

Qualifications

• U.S. Person as defined by EAR and ITAR regulations
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline
• 3+ years of relevant project engineering or technical program management experience
• Background in mechanical, manufacturing, quality, or related engineering fields
• Demonstrated ability to build and execute structured project timelines
• Experience managing multiple complex initiatives simultaneously
• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills in agile, fast-moving environments
• Experience working with external vendors and suppliers
• Proficiency in project management software and tracking tools
• Ability to translate between technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Strong organizational skills with a proactive, risk-aware mindset

Preferred Experience

• PMP or comparable project management certification
• Experience implementing or supporting Quality Management Systems such as AS9100 or ISO9001
• Familiarity with advanced quality and reliability tools including FMEA, PFMEA, and DFMEA
• Experience in aerospace, defense, or other regulated industries
• Direct experience managing R&D engineering programs
• Background leading technical programs from early-stage development through scaled production

Why Join Us

• Equity participation and ownership mindset
• Opportunity for rapid growth in a scaling defense technology company
• High ownership and visibility across mission-critical programs
• Fast-moving, hands-on engineering environment
• Strong PTO policy
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with 1:1 employer match up to 4% of salary
• Work that directly supports national defense and advanced U.S. manufacturing

Compensation Details

$110,000 - $155,000

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