Mechanical Systems Engineering Lead

About the role

Natilus is building the next generation of aviation through the development of blended-wing-body aircraft, delivering a step-change in overall efficiency. Our growing family of aircraft is designed to make air travel more sustainable while fundamentally improving the economics of commercial flight and the operational effectiveness of defense logistics.

By combining advanced aerodynamics with innovative design, Natilus aircraft achieve exceptional fuel efficiency, increased payload capacity, and seamless compatibility with existing airport infrastructure. With hundreds of aircraft valued in the billions of dollars already on order, we are redefining how aircraft are designed, built, and operated, representing a meaningful evolution in modern aviation

Work Summary

Natilus is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineering Lead to join our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will lead and contribute to end-to-end systems design and development, including requirements definition, system architecture, and technical integration across aircraft subsystems, including flight control mechanisms, propulsion, avionics, electrical, and fuel systems.

This position will play a key role in the design, development, and optimization of systems and components, ensuring functionality, performance, and seamless integration across the aircraft. Additional responsibilities include overseeing trade studies, interface control, compliance, and project scheduling, while providing technical leadership and mentorship to the engineering team.

Main Responsibilities

• Applies technical knowledge to the aircraft systems design from concept through first flight
• Provide technical leadership and oversight for the Kona systems design team
• Assign work, set priorities, and mentor engineers to ensure timely, high-quality execution
• Communicate and collaborate closely with the executive team including CEO and Head of Engineering
• Manage engineering deliverables, identify issues, and drive corrective actions as needed
• Lead and contribute to aircraft system design and analysis from concept through production, including propulsion, fuel, electrical, avionics, and flight controls

Requirements & Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience as a systems engineer or in a closely related role
• Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
• Strong foundational understanding of aircraft systems
• Familiarity with FAA Part 23 and 25 requirements
• Experience with aircraft systems test planning and execution
• Experience with turboprop powerplant installation design
• Familiarity with composite airframe design and integration
• Proficiency with NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks
• Experience with rapid prototype aircraft programs from conceptual and preliminary design through build

Desired Experience

• Kickoff through production program experience
• Rapid prototype program experience
• Hands-on build experience

Core Behaviors

• Build trust through ownership, transparency, and follow-through
• Communicates clearly, directly, and respectfully across teams
• Lead by example and model expected behaviors
• Ability to give and receive direct, constructive feedback
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with evolving priorities

Travel Requirements

Occasional travel and on-site work at the local hangar may be required

Compensation

The expected salary range for this position is $170,000 to $195,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on qualifications, relevant experience, skills, and business needs.

Benefits & Perks

• Health Care Plan (Medica, Dental, Vision)
• Retirement Plan - 401k
• Unlimited PTO
• Onsite Gym Access