Who We Are At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors—regardless of their defense budget—through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost. About the Role Firestorm is building next-generation, deployable combat systems and we’re looking for a Project Engineer, to join our Payloads Group. In this role, you’ll lead the design, integration, test, and certification of kinetic and non-kinetic effectors on our tactical sUAS platforms, ensuring safe, effective, and compliant weapons employment from concept through field deployment. This role will take ownership of the full weapons integration lifecycle, managing everything from safing/fuzing to release systems, interface documentation and live-fire testing. This isn’t about developing theoretical capabilities for a future that never arrives; it’s about fielding mission-ready payloads that operators will carry into live environments. You’ll work at the intersection of warfighter intent and technical execution, balancing rigor with agility, and compliance with tactical need. From loitering munitions to emerging payloads, you’ll help shape a flexible and scalable effects architecture that brings precision to the squad level and beyond. This is a role for engineers who think like tacticians, sweat the details, and thrive in a fast-moving, multi-disciplinary environment.    What You’ll Do Serve as the technical lead for munition-related efforts, including integration, testing, and certification of kinetic and non-kinetic payloads on sUAS platforms. Develop and manage system- and subsystem-level requirements for munitions, release systems, and stores management, with an emphasis on modularity and scalability. Contribute to system architecture design and analysis; troubleshoot conflicting design or integration requirements across payload, airframe, and control systems. Oversee the physical and electrical integration of weapons, including mounting solutions, safety mechanisms, and interface control documentation (ICDs). Plan and execute test campaigns across lab, ground, and flight environments—supporting test readiness reviews, live-fire events, and post-test data analysis. Ensure all munition systems comply with DoD safety, airworthiness, and export regulations (e.g., MIL-STD, AFMAN, ITAR). Develop and present technical material at internal and external design reviews, customer meetings, and certification milestones. Coordinate with external partners on warhead design, guidance packages, fuzing systems, and energetic materials. Lead or support the development of Explosive Safety Submissions (ESS), range safety documentation, and coordination with range authorities. Provide technical direction to internal design, integration, and test teams throughout the development lifecycle. Collaborate closely with program managers to align technical execution with program objectives, schedules, and constraints. Interface with customers, government stakeholders, and vendors to ensure delivery of operationally relevant and technically sound weapon systems. Support proposal efforts, white papers, and early-phase concept development for future munitions capabilities. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Weapons Engineering, Physics or a related field. Minimum of 5 years of engineering experience, including at least 3 years directly supporting weapons or munitions integration. Alternatively,  in lieu of a degree, 10+ years of military service in an ordnance-related specialty (e.g., EOD, Aviation Ordnanceman, Weapons Troop, or similar munitions roles). Direct experience with integration or employment of air-delivered munitions, weapons release systems, or loitering munitions, preferably on Group 2–4 UAS or manned platforms. Working knowledge of MIL-STD-1760, safing/fuzing mechanisms, weapons release hardware, and applicable DoD safety/certification protocols. Familiarity with range safety procedures, explosive hazard classifications, and test range coordination. Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interface with other departments and represent the organization as a prime technical contact. Customer-focused mindset with the ability to formulate and implement plans to resolve technical engineering problems. Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance. U.S. Citizenship required. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree or equivalent experience in weapons engineering, systems engineering, explosive ordnance, or related fields (MBA or Engineering Management is a plus). Experience with Stores Management Systems, aircraft-carried weapons, or weapons datalink integration. Familiarity with Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA), STANAG 4586, and related interoperability standards. Hands-on field experience conducting flight or ground testing of UAS platforms. Experience working with military range authorities and writing Explosive Safety Submissions (ESS). Familiarity with test instrumentation, telemetry, and post-test data analysis. Experience working with DoD customers or within the defense acquisition environment. Proficiency with Jira, Confluence, or similar project tracking tools. Field experience with UAS testing and validation. PMP certification. Active DoD security clearance Work Environment Based at our Headquarters in San Diego, CA. Ability to travel up to 20%, both CONUS and OCONUS. PPE is provided; adherence to all safety protocols and environmental controls is mandatory. Ability to lift 30lbs

Compensation   US Salary Range: $1,000 - $1,000 USD The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.   Benefits & Perks   Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation: We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals Unlimited PTO Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in December. Generous Parental Leave FSA HSA Hospital Indemnity insurance Critical Illness insurance Accident insurance Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family. Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well. ITAR Compliance   To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.   Equal Opportunity Statement   Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.   Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.

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