Aircraft Certification Lead

Job Location: Oxnard, CA 

Swarm Aero is redefining air power, building the largest swarming UAV and most versatile swarming aircraft network in the world. The company is moving quickly to launch the first aircraft designed specifically for swarming as well as the Command & Control software to mobilize swarms of thousands of heterogeneous autonomous assets and empower human operators to achieve superhuman results. 

The team has created and exited multiple startups, negotiated defense deals worth billions of dollars and designed and built 30+ novel aircraft, with aerospace experience from Scaled Composites, SpaceX, Airbus, Archer Aviation, Blue Origin, and Boom Supersonic. 

What you'll do: 

• Lead the aircraft certification process for Swarm Aero UAVs, ensuring compliance with relevant aviation standards and regulations. 

• Develop and implement certification strategies, plans, and schedules in coordination with cross-functional engineering teams. 

• Interface with regulatory authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA) to facilitate the certification process and address any concerns or requirements. 

• Prepare and review certification documentation, including compliance reports, safety assessments, and test plans. 

• Collaborate with design, engineering, and quality teams to ensure all certification requirements are met throughout the product development lifecycle. 

• Manage certification testing and validation activities, including coordination of ground and flight tests. 

• Stay current with changes in regulatory requirements and standards and ensure Swarm Aero’s processes and products remain compliant. 

What you've done: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree preferred. 

• 7+ years of experience in aircraft certification, with a proven track record of leading successful certification efforts. 

• Comprehensive knowledge of aviation regulations, standards, and certification processes, including FAA Part 23/25/27/29 and EASA CS-23/25/27/29. 

• Experience with UAV certification processes and regulations is highly advantageous. 

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively interface with regulatory authorities and internal teams. 

What sets you apart: 

• Demonstrated experience in leading the certification of advanced or novel aircraft technologies. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a thorough understanding of safety assessment methodologies. 

• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and compliance. 

• Excellent leadership and teamwork skills, with the ability to mentor and guide junior engineers in certification processes. 

• Familiarity with systems engineering practices and tools. 

• Military or defense project experience is a significant plus. 

What we Offer: 

• Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth defense technology company 

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience  

• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401k 

• PTO and Paid Sick Time 

• Monthly Wellness Stipend 

• Daily catered lunch to office 

• Paid Parental leave  

• Flexible work arrangement - remote/hybrid with regular collaboration in Oxnard 

• Direct impact opportunity - be a key leader in building a critical technology for national security 

• World-class team - work alongside exceptional engineers and operators solving hard problems 

 Salary range: 155k-210k

Optionally: Candidates for this position must have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance. 

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy work environment, Swarm Aero conducts a thorough screening of prospective employees. Candidates will be subject to a comprehensive background verification process as a prerequisite for employment. 

To conform to U.S. Government controlled 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 eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.