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Environmental Qualification & Design Engineer

San Luis Obispo, California, United States

Join us at Zone 5 Technologies where innovation and cutting-edge technology drive pioneering advancements in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Based in the vibrant city of San Luis Obispo CA, we're seeking talented individuals to join and contribute to our growing team.

We thrive on pushing boundaries and inventing solutions to real-world challenges. Join a community of forward-thinkers who collaborate to create impactful products with a global reach. Our team, consisting of engineers and professionals, is prepared to overcome new frontiers and deliver innovative solutions in the field of unmanned aircraft systems.

Environmental Qualification & Design Engineer

(Testing, Validation & MIL-STD-810 - or equivalent - Design Integration)

Zone 5 Technologies, LLC is seeking a highly skilled Environmental Qualification & Design Engineer to lead the environmental testing, validation, and design integration of advanced counter-drone drone and missile systems for U.S. Department of Defense programs. This role requires a deep understanding of MIL-STD-810, EMI/EMC, and missile systems—blending hands-on test execution with early-phase design input to ensure our platforms perform in the most demanding operational environments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, author, and execute detailed environmental test plans in compliance with MIL-STD-810 and related military standards.
  • Partner with design engineering teams to integrate test-derived insights into hardware architecture, material selection, and packaging to improve reliability and survivability.
  • Translate environmental qualification needs into design guidelines and drive early-phase design reviews to ensure environmental readiness.
  • Conduct and oversee testing across critical environments, including shock, vibration, temperature, humidity, rain, and sand/dust.
  • Coordinate and support EMI/EMC testing, including collaboration with external labs and internal electrical teams.
  • Lead test setup planning, including harnessing, fixturing, instrumentation, and data acquisition strategies.
  • Serve as primary technical interface for third-party test houses—coordinating logistics, validating setup integrity, and ensuring test fidelity.
  • Apply knowledge of missile systems and counter-UAS platforms to guide realistic and mission-relevant test planning.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

  • 12–15 years of relevant experience in aerospace, defense, or high-reliability systems engineering.
  • Direct hands-on expertise in MIL-STD-810 environmental testing, with working knowledge of DO-160 and/or related military/industry standards.
  • Experience in identifying root cause failure and incorporating insights into early design phases to ensure success.
  • Solid understanding of both mechanical and electrical systems, including familiarity with power/harnessing, enclosures, and electronics packaging under extreme conditions.
  • Hands-on experience with test instrumentation, vibration tables, thermal chambers, and data collection tools.
  • Proven ability to work cross-functionally with internal engineering teams and external testing partners.
  • Experience supporting or qualifying missile systems, guided munitions, or small aerial vehicles in DoD acquisition or RDT&E environments.
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering

Pay range for this role

$170,000 - $205,000 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 
  • 4 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 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.

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